Please Support the Bible Translation Work of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

$5.00

In addressing the question of where Moses was called by God—whether in Egypt or in Midian—it is crucial to engage deeply with the Scriptural accounts that detail the life and mission of Moses, one of the most seminal figures in the Judeo-Christian tradition. This exploration is not merely an academic exercise but a journey into understanding the divine orchestration of redemption and prophecy through God’s chosen instruments.

The Context of Moses’ Divine Encounter

The narrative of Moses’ life is spread across several chapters in the book of Exodus, with pivotal events that mark the stages of his life, his calling, and his leadership over Israel. The specific verses in Exodus 6:10-13 occur within a broader discourse where God reaffirms His covenant with Israel and reiterates Moses’ mission to bring His people out of bondage. This passage, however, must be interpreted in light of earlier accounts of Moses’ encounters with God.

Moses in Midian: The Burning Bush

The initial divine calling of Moses took place in Midian, far from the afflictions of the Israelites in Egypt. This event is recorded in Exodus 3, where Moses, while tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, came upon the burning bush on Mount Horeb (Exodus 3:1-3). Here, God directly calls out to Moses from the midst of the bush, revealing His name “I am who I am” (Or, based on grammar and context, an alternative reading could be, I will be what I will be.) and commissioning Moses to return to Egypt to lead His people to freedom (Exodus 3:4-14).

The Significance of the Midianite Call

The encounter at the burning bush was not merely a call to action but a profound revelation of God’s character, purpose, and promise. It was here that Moses received the signs and assurances of God’s power and presence (Exodus 3:12, 3:20). The specificity of God’s instructions and the miraculous signs provided to Moses underscore the direct and personal nature of this call. This event underscores the commencement of Moses’ prophetic mission and establishes the foundation for his leadership and legacy.

Reiteration and Reaffirmation in Egypt

Upon returning to Egypt, Moses faced the enormous task of confronting Pharaoh and enduring the skepticism of his own people. Exodus 6:10-13 should be understood as a reaffirmation of the mission initially given in Midian rather than a distinct or separate calling. In this passage, God reiterates His command to Moses and Aaron, emphasizing His role as the God of their fathers and His covenantal promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 6:3-8). This reaffirmation serves to strengthen Moses’ resolve and clarify the divine mandate amidst the challenges he faced within Egypt.

Interpreting the Chronology and Geography of the Call

The chronological and geographical details of Moses’ calling highlight the providential guidance of God throughout the journey of redemption. The burning bush encounter occurred during Moses’ sojourn in Midian, a period marked by exile and preparation for Moses. This divine appointment in the wilderness, away from the immediate context of Egyptian oppression, allowed for a clear and undistracted communication of God’s will and intentions.

Upon Moses’ return to Egypt, the challenges he encountered necessitated a reaffirmation of his calling and mission. This is not indicative of a new or separate calling but rather a continuation and reinforcement of the original command given in Midian. The narrative seamlessly integrates these episodes to present a cohesive account of divine election, human obedience, and redemptive action.

The Unity of Moses’ Divine Mission

Understanding the call of Moses requires recognizing the unity and continuity of his mission from Midian to Egypt. The divine interactions, from the burning bush to the plagues upon Egypt, reveal a consistent and purposeful engagement of God with His chosen leader and through him, with His chosen people. Moses’ journey from Midian back to Egypt is not merely a physical relocation but a transition into the role of deliverer, a role ordained and empowered by God from the outset.

Scriptural Corroboration and Prophetic Consistency

The coherence of the biblical narrative regarding Moses’ calling is further supported by New Testament references that acknowledge his role and mission. Acts 7:30-35, Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin, recounts Moses’ initial calling at the burning bush and his subsequent return to Egypt as a deliverer. This testament in the early Christian community underscores the recognition of Moses’ singular calling and mission, as ordained by God.

Navigating the Narrative with Faith and Understanding

In examining the question of Moses’ call—whether in Egypt or in Midian—it becomes clear that the narrative of Exodus presents a harmonious and multifaceted account of divine calling, human response, and redemptive purpose. The Scriptures provide ample evidence of a God who is intimately involved in the details of history and individual lives, calling and equipping His servants for the tasks He ordains.

The call of Moses, initiated in the solitude of Midian and reiterated in the complexity of Egypt, stands as a testament to the faithfulness of God and the obedience of those He chooses. This journey, rich in divine encounter and prophetic mission, invites readers to recognize the depth of God’s engagement with His creation and His relentless pursuit of redemption for His people.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is the CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored more than 220 books and is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).