Exodus 4 - Introduction

A.M. 2513. B.C. 1491.

This chapter,

(1,) Continues and concludes God's discourse with Moses, concerning bringing Israel out of Egypt. 1, Moses objects the people's unbelief, Exodus 4:1, and God answers that objection by giving him a power to work miracles. First, To turn his rod into a serpent, and then into a rod again, Exodus 4:2. Second, To make his hand leprous, and then whole again, Exodus 4:6. Third, To turn the water into blood, Exodus 4:9; Exodus 4:2, Moses objects his own slowness of speech, Exodus 4:10, and begs to be excused, Exodus 4:13. But God answers his objection, First, By promising him his presence, Exodus 4:11; Exodus 4:12. Second, By joining Aaron in commission with him, Exodus 4:14. Third, By putting an honour upon the very staff in his hand, Exodus 4:17.

(2,) Moses's execution of his commission. 1, He obtains leave of his father-in- law to return into Egypt, Exodus 4:18; Exodus 4:2, He receives further instructions from God, Exodus 4:19; Exodus 4:3, He hastens his departure, and takes his family with him, Exodus 4:20; Exodus 4:4, He meets with some difficulty about the circumcising of his son, Exodus 4:24; Exodus 4:5, He has the satisfaction of meeting his brother Aaron, Exodus 4:27; Exodus 4:28; Exodus 4:6, He produceth his commission before the elders of Israel, to their great joy, Exodus 4:29.