Lessons from the Life of Moses (Part One)

Mentioned over 700 times in the Old Testament and about 80 times in the New Testament, Moses is unquestionably one of the most significant characters in the Bible. The Scriptures depict Moses as a prophet, priest, leader of Israel, poet, miracle worker, and mediator.

By identifying with the Israelites, Moses “gave up position, pleasure, and prosperity, and by doing so he rejected three of the world’s biggest temptations: narcissism, hedonism, and materialism.

In Exodus 3:1-4:17, we find the first interchange between God and Moses. In this extended dialogue, God commissions Moses three times, while Moses will raise five sets of objections.

In Exodus 3:1-4:17, we find the first interchange between God and Moses. In this extended dialogue, God commissions Moses three times, while Moses raises five sets of objections.

The Book of Exodus now brings closure to Moses’ life in the land of the Midianites and concludes this chapter with Moses returning to Egypt.

Despite the Lord telling Moses that Pharaoh would not allow the Israelites to leave, Moses seemed shocked at Pharaoh’s negative response.

Exodus 6 and 7 highlight that no person or country will share in God’s glory. All praise and honor belong to Him. Despite serving as the most powerful man on the globe, Pharaoh is no match for the Lord.

Prior to the climax of the deliverance of the Israelites—the parting of the Red Sea—the Lord stresses the importance of the Passover, the Feast of the Unleavened Bread, and the dedication of the firstborn. These religious rituals stress the importance of remembrance in the life of Israel.

With nearly 125 explicit Old Testament references to the Exodus, it is no surprise that “the centrality of the Exodus was retained throughout the entire Old Testament and established Israel’s identity.”

Known as the “Song of Moses” or the “Song of the Sea”, Exodus 15:1-19 celebrates the Lord’s deliverance of His people and His victory over Pharaoh and his army.