Exodus 1:21 – “And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 1:21 highlights the blessing that God bestowed upon the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, as a reward for their faithfulness and fear of God. Despite the immense pressure from Pharaoh to kill the male Hebrew infants, these midwives chose to obey God rather than man. As a result, God blessed them with families of their own. This verse not only demonstrates God’s approval of their actions but also shows that God rewards those who choose to honor Him above all else. The “families” mentioned in the verse likely refer to the establishment of their own households, a significant blessing in a culture where family and lineage were highly valued.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is rooted in the broader story of the Israelites’ oppression in Egypt. The Israelites had grown numerous, and Pharaoh, fearing their potential power, ordered the killing of all male Hebrew newborns. Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives, were charged with carrying out this brutal command. However, their fear of God led them to disobey Pharaoh and protect the lives of the Hebrew boys. In a society where obedience to the king was expected and deviations could result in severe punishment, their decision was a courageous act of faith.
In response to their faithfulness, God blessed them with families. This was particularly meaningful in the ancient Near Eastern context, where having children and descendants was considered one of the greatest blessings and a sign of God’s favor.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 1:21 emphasizes the principle that God rewards those who fear Him and act righteously, even when it is risky or costly. The fear of God, as demonstrated by the midwives, is a reverent awe that leads to obedience and moral courage. This verse shows that God notices and values the actions of those who put His will above all else.
It also speaks to God’s justice and faithfulness. The midwives’ decision to save lives was in alignment with God’s character as the giver and protector of life. In turn, God’s blessing on them underscores His commitment to upholding and rewarding righteousness.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 1:21 serves as a resolution to the tension created earlier in the narrative. The verse provides a satisfying conclusion to the midwives’ story by showing that their faithfulness was not in vain. The structure of the verse, with the cause (“because the midwives feared God”) and the effect (“he gave them families of their own”), clearly links their righteous actions to the divine blessing they received.
This verse also contrasts the outcome of the midwives with the broader narrative of oppression and death commanded by Pharaoh. While Pharaoh sought to destroy life, God, in response to the midwives’ fear of Him, brought about life and blessing.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” This verse reinforces the idea that fearing God leads to wise and righteous actions.
- 1 Samuel 2:30: “Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.” This echoes the principle seen in Exodus 1:21 where God honors those who honor Him.
- Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” This verse aligns with the idea that God rewards those who fear Him and act according to His will.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 1:21 is a powerful reminder that God sees and rewards our faithfulness. It encourages believers to prioritize obedience to God over fear of man, knowing that God honors those who honor Him. This verse challenges Christians to consider how their actions reflect their reverence for God and to trust that He is faithful to reward those who act righteously, even when it is difficult.
This verse also reassures believers that God’s blessings often come in ways that are deeply meaningful and personal. For the midwives, receiving families of their own was a tangible and significant reward that affirmed their value and God’s care for them.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 1:21 reveals God’s loving nature through His response to the midwives’ faithfulness. God’s love is not distant or abstract; it is active and personal. He took notice of the midwives’ fear of Him and blessed them in a way that was both practical and deeply meaningful. This verse shows that God’s love is expressed in His care for those who honor Him, rewarding their faithfulness with blessings that reflect His kindness and attentiveness to their needs.
God’s love is also seen in His protection and provision. By giving the midwives families of their own, God not only rewarded them but also ensured their ongoing well-being and security, demonstrating His loving provision for those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The connection between Exodus 1:21 and Jesus Christ can be seen in the theme of divine reward for faithfulness. Just as the midwives were blessed for their fear of God, Jesus teaches in the New Testament that those who follow Him and live according to God’s will are blessed (Matthew 5:6-12). Jesus Himself exemplified perfect obedience to the Father, and through His life, death, and resurrection, He opened the way for all who follow Him to receive the ultimate reward—eternal life with God.
Moreover, the blessing of families given to the midwives can be seen as a foreshadowing of the spiritual family that believers are welcomed into through Christ. Jesus’ ministry emphasized the creation of a new family of God, where all who do the will of the Father are brothers and sisters (Matthew 12:50).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the example of the midwives in Exodus 1:21 challenge you to prioritize obedience to God in your own life?
- In what ways can you trust in God’s faithfulness to reward your efforts to live righteously, even when it is difficult?
- How does this verse encourage you to consider the impact of your actions on others and the importance of fearing God?
- What parallels can you draw between the rewards given to the midwives and the blessings promised to those who follow Christ?
- How can you apply the lessons from this verse in your own life, particularly when facing decisions that test your faith and commitment to God’s will?