Exodus 12:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 12:28
28 And the children of Israel went away, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron, so did they.
Chapter Context
Exodus 12 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, judgment, hope. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-51: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 12:28
28 And the children of Israel went away, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron, so did they.
Analysis
The phrase 'the children of Israel went away, and did as the LORD had commanded' demonstrates immediate, comprehensive obedience. Despite still being enslaved, without seeing judgment or deliverance yet, they obeyed by faith. This obedience would soon be vindicated. The perfect correspondence between divine command (through Moses and Aaron) and human response models the obedience of faith.
Historical Context
This mass obedience required coordination across hundreds of thousands of households. Their unified action demonstrated corporate faith that God would do what He promised.
Reflection
- How does Israel's obedience before seeing results challenge you to trust God's word ahead of visible evidence?
- What divine command are you delaying until you see how things will work out?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord