Exodus 3:11 – “But Moses said to God, ‘Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 3:11 captures Moses’ initial reaction to God’s call for him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Faced with this enormous task, Moses expresses doubt and insecurity, asking, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” This question reveals Moses’ deep sense of inadequacy and humility. Despite his privileged upbringing in Pharaoh’s household and his past as a prince of Egypt, Moses now sees himself as an ordinary shepherd, far removed from the power and influence he once had.
Moses’ question is not just about his ability to confront Pharaoh, the most powerful ruler of the time, but also about his worthiness and qualifications for such a monumental mission. This verse highlights a common human response to God’s call—feeling unqualified or overwhelmed by the task at hand.
Historical Context
Moses’ question must be understood against the backdrop of his life story. After fleeing Egypt due to his involvement in the killing of an Egyptian, Moses had lived in Midian for forty years. He had settled into the life of a shepherd, marrying and raising a family. His former life in Egypt, where he was once a member of Pharaoh’s household, seemed like a distant memory. Now, as an 80-year-old man, Moses likely felt that his days of making a significant impact were behind him.
At this point, Egypt was the dominant superpower, and Pharaoh was considered a god in his own right. For Moses, a fugitive and a shepherd, to stand before Pharaoh and demand the release of an entire nation seemed like an impossible and dangerous task.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 3:11 highlights the theme of God’s call often coming to those who feel least capable or worthy. Throughout Scripture, God chooses individuals who are weak or insignificant by the world’s standards to accomplish His purposes. This verse reminds us that God’s work is not dependent on human strength or qualifications but on His power and presence.
Moses’ question also points to the importance of humility in responding to God’s call. Rather than assuming he was ready or able, Moses questioned his ability, which opened the door for God to assure him that it was not about Moses’ strength, but about God’s power working through him.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, Exodus 3:11 serves as a key moment of character development for Moses. The verse portrays Moses as a reluctant leader, highlighting his humility and sense of inadequacy. This makes him a relatable figure for anyone who has ever doubted their ability to fulfill a significant task.
Moses’ question, “Who am I?” contrasts sharply with the grandeur of God’s plan to deliver Israel. This tension between human weakness and divine mission is a recurring theme in biblical narratives, emphasizing that God’s plans often exceed human expectations and abilities.
Biblical Cross-References
- Judges 6:15: Gideon responds to God’s call with similar words, “But Lord,” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.”
- Jeremiah 1:6: Jeremiah also questions his ability to be a prophet, saying, “Alas, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
- 1 Corinthians 1:27: “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong,” reflecting the principle that God uses the unlikely to accomplish His will.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 3:11 speaks to the reality that we often feel inadequate or unworthy of the tasks God calls us to. Whether it’s sharing our faith, leading a ministry, or simply living out our Christian walk, we might feel like we’re not up to the challenge. Moses’ question reminds us that these feelings of inadequacy are normal, but they do not disqualify us from God’s service.
This verse encourages believers to rely not on their own abilities, but on God’s strength and guidance. It teaches that when God calls us to something, He also equips us to carry it out, even if we can’t see how at the moment.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 3:11 highlights God’s love in how He responds to our doubts and fears. God does not dismiss Moses’ concerns or rebuke him for questioning his worthiness. Instead, He reassures Moses that He will be with him. God’s love is patient and understanding, meeting us where we are and encouraging us to trust Him despite our fears.
This verse shows that God values humility and honesty in His relationship with us. He invites us to bring our insecurities and doubts to Him, trusting that His love will guide us through whatever challenges we face.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 3:11 connects to Jesus Christ in the way Jesus calls His disciples to follow Him, despite their weaknesses and flaws. Just as God called Moses, who felt inadequate, Jesus called fishermen, tax collectors, and other ordinary people to be His disciples. In John 15:16, Jesus tells His disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.”
Jesus’ own humility is also reflected in this verse. Philippians 2:7-8 describes how Jesus “made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Jesus’ willingness to humble Himself and serve others is the ultimate example for us, echoing the humility Moses showed when he questioned his ability to lead.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when you feel inadequate or unworthy of a task God has placed before you?
- What does Moses’ humility in this verse teach you about how to approach God’s calling in your life?
- How can you rely on God’s strength instead of your own when faced with challenges?
- In what ways can you bring your doubts and insecurities to God, trusting in His love and guidance?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility inspire you to serve others, even when you feel inadequate?