Exodus 4:18-31
Moses had previously gone away without having been sent by God. Now that the LORD is sending him, he raises all possible objections to avoid the call: his inability (Exodus 3:11), his ignorance (Exodus 3:13), his lack of authority (v. 1), of eloquence (v. 10), the aptitude for his mission, with the desire that someone else should take it over (v. 13), the failure of his previous attempt (Exodus 5:23), or the lack of understanding shown by his brethren (Exodus 6:12). Do we not often advance such reasons ourselves for not obeying? Vv. 24-26 remind us that before setting out on public service it is first necessary for a servant of God to have put his own house in order. Up till now, probably under the influence of his wife, Moses had not circumcised his son, symbolic of the condemnation of the flesh. God required it, (Genesis 17:10), as all the more necessary and right in the house of His servant. And this is the question which must now be settled, under pain of death!
Vv. 27-28 give us an indication as to where brethren are called to meet one another: on the mount of God — and what is to be the subject of their conversation: the Word of the Lord and His marvellous acts.
At the commencement of the chapter Moses said, "But, behold, they will not believe me." Now, however, the LORD had prepared their hearts. The children of Israel do believe (v. 31; cf. 2 Chronicles 29:36). Even before their deliverance, they bow their heads before Him.