Exodus 1:20 – “So God was kind to the midwives and the people increased and became even more numerous.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 1:20 highlights God’s response to the actions of the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah. Despite the immense pressure from Pharaoh to kill the male Hebrew infants, the midwives feared God and chose to preserve life. As a result, God was kind to them, and the Israelites continued to multiply and grow stronger. This verse emphasizes that God honors those who stand for righteousness and that His blessings often follow acts of faithfulness, even in difficult circumstances. The multiplication of the Israelites, despite Pharaoh’s attempts to suppress them, is a testament to God’s sovereign power and His ability to bless His people in the face of opposition.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is rooted in the Israelites’ oppression in Egypt. Pharaoh, alarmed by the rapid growth of the Israelite population, sought to control them by ordering the death of all newborn Hebrew boys. However, the midwives, motivated by their reverence for God, defied Pharaoh’s command. Their decision to protect the Hebrew infants was a bold act of civil disobedience in a time when defying the king’s orders could have had severe consequences.
God’s kindness to the midwives in this context reflects His approval of their actions and His continued commitment to the promises He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite Pharaoh’s efforts, the Israelites continued to grow, fulfilling God’s promise that they would become a great nation.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 1:20 underscores the principle that God rewards those who fear Him and choose to do what is right, even when it is difficult. The midwives’ actions demonstrate a deep trust in God’s sovereignty and a commitment to His moral law over human decrees. This verse also highlights the idea that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted by human schemes. Despite Pharaoh’s attempts to diminish the Israelite population, God’s blessing allowed them to continue to multiply and thrive.
This verse also reminds believers that God’s kindness is not just a response to obedience but is part of His nature. God is inherently good and delights in showing kindness to those who walk in His ways. The growth of the Israelites serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to bring good out of seemingly impossible situations.
Literary Analysis
From a literary standpoint, Exodus 1:20 serves as a key turning point in the narrative. The verse contrasts God’s kindness with Pharaoh’s cruelty, emphasizing the superiority of divine power over human authority. The phrase “God was kind to the midwives” is significant because it attributes their success and the continued growth of the Israelites directly to God’s intervention. This literary structure reinforces the theme of divine sovereignty and the futility of human efforts to oppose God’s will.
The verse also serves to resolve the tension that has been building in the story. After the midwives’ courageous decision, the reader sees the positive outcome of their faithfulness, both for them personally and for the nation of Israel as a whole.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 16:7: “When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.” This verse reflects the idea that God’s favor can protect and bless those who follow Him, even in hostile environments.
- Psalm 37:28: “For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones.” This underscores God’s commitment to those who act justly, like the midwives.
- Hebrews 6:10: “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” This reflects God’s faithfulness in rewarding those who serve Him, as He did with the midwives.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 1:20 is a powerful reminder that God honors and rewards those who choose to do what is right, even in challenging circumstances. This verse encourages believers to trust in God’s goodness and to act with integrity, knowing that God sees their actions and will respond with kindness. It also challenges Christians to consider how they can stand up for righteousness in their own lives, especially when it requires going against the flow of societal or cultural norms.
This verse also provides assurance that God’s plans are unstoppable. Despite the opposition we may face, God is able to bring about His purposes in our lives and in the world, just as He did for the Israelites.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 1:20 highlights God’s loving nature by showing how He responded to the faithfulness of the midwives. God’s kindness is an expression of His love, which extends to all who fear Him and seek to do His will. This verse reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent to our struggles; He is actively involved in the lives of those who trust in Him, offering guidance, protection, and blessing.
God’s love is also evident in His commitment to the Israelites as His chosen people. Despite the challenges they faced in Egypt, God’s love and kindness ensured their survival and growth, laying the foundation for the fulfillment of His promises.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The connection between Exodus 1:20 and Jesus Christ is seen in the theme of divine kindness and blessing in response to faithfulness. Just as God was kind to the midwives for their righteousness, Jesus teaches that those who follow Him and live according to God’s will are blessed (Matthew 5:6-12). Jesus Himself embodied God’s kindness, offering salvation and life to all who believe in Him.
Additionally, the growth of the Israelites despite oppression can be seen as a foreshadowing of the growth of the Church. Despite persecution and opposition, the early Church multiplied and spread, demonstrating that God’s purposes in Christ cannot be thwarted by human resistance.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the example of the midwives in Exodus 1:20 encourage you to stand firm in your convictions, even in difficult situations?
- In what ways can you trust in God’s kindness and protection when you choose to do what is right?
- How does this verse challenge you to consider the impact of your actions on others and the role of integrity in your life?
- What parallels can you draw between the growth of the Israelites in Egypt and the growth of the Church despite persecution?
- How can you apply the lessons from this verse in your own life when facing decisions that test your faith and commitment to God’s will?