Exodus 18:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 18:15
15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:
Chapter Context
Exodus 18 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, discipleship, truth. 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 18:15
15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:
Analysis
And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God—Moses' defense shows his heart: people seek divine guidance, and Moses provides it. The verb 'enquire' (לִדְרֹשׁ, lidrosh, 'to seek, consult') indicates serious spiritual seeking, not trivial matters. Moses sees himself as mediator between God and people, a role God has given him (Ex 4:15-16). His explanation 'When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another' shows judicial function. The addition 'and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws' reveals teaching role beyond merely deciding cases. Moses' multi-faceted ministry (mediator, judge, teacher) is commendable but unsustainable at current scale.
Historical Context
Moses' role as sole mediator before Sinai gave way to distributed priesthood and eldership after. This transition shows God's organizational development through Israel's growing needs.
Reflection
- How does Moses' view of his role (making known God's statutes) show proper motivation even if method is flawed?
- What does the combination of judging and teaching roles teach about leadership's comprehensive nature?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References Moses: Numbers 27:5
- Parallel theme: Numbers 15:34