Exodus 3:13 – “Moses said to God, ‘Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, “The God of your fathers has sent me to you,” and they ask me, “What is his name?” Then what shall I tell them?'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 3:13 captures another moment of hesitation from Moses as he processes the monumental task God has just assigned him. After being assured of God’s presence, Moses now anticipates the potential doubts and questions from the Israelites. He wonders how he can convincingly present himself as God’s chosen leader and anticipates that the people will ask about the name of the God who sent him. In ancient times, knowing the name of a deity was significant because it revealed the character, power, and authority of the one being addressed.
Moses is essentially asking, “How will I explain who You are to the people? What can I say that will make them believe me?” His question reflects a deeper concern about the credibility and authority he will need to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
Historical Context
At this point in history, the Israelites had been living in Egypt for several generations. They were deeply oppressed and likely struggling with their faith in the God of their ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The name of God was important because it represented His identity and His covenant relationship with His people. The Egyptians worshiped many gods, each with their own names and attributes, so it would be crucial for Moses to clearly communicate the unique identity of the God who was sending him.
Moses, who had been away from Egypt for 40 years, also understood that he would need to establish his authority not only before Pharaoh but also before his own people. His question about God’s name reveals his awareness of the challenges he would face in gaining the Israelites’ trust.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 3:13 underscores the importance of God’s self-revelation. Moses’ question about God’s name isn’t just about semantics; it’s about understanding who God is and how He relates to His people. God’s name, as revealed in the following verse, “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14), signifies His eternal, self-sufficient, and unchanging nature. This revelation is foundational to understanding God’s identity and His relationship with His people.
This verse also highlights the role of faith in leadership. Moses is called to lead, but he is also called to trust in God’s character and the authority that comes from God alone. It shows that true leadership in God’s kingdom is rooted in a deep understanding of who God is and in the willingness to depend on His name and power.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 3:13 builds tension and anticipation in the narrative. Moses, who has already expressed doubt about his own abilities, now shifts the focus to the potential skepticism of the Israelites. The question he poses creates a moment of pause, as the reader awaits God’s response, which will be one of the most significant revelations in Scripture.
Moses’ question also serves to humanize him, making him relatable to anyone who has ever faced a daunting task and wondered how to prove they are up to the challenge. It reflects the genuine concerns of a leader who wants to be sure he can fulfill the mission entrusted to him.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 6:2-3: God further clarifies His name and His covenant relationship with the patriarchs, deepening the understanding of His identity.
- John 8:58: Jesus says, “Before Abraham was born, I am!” directly connecting Himself to the divine name revealed in Exodus, asserting His eternal existence and divinity.
- Isaiah 42:8: “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols,” emphasizing the uniqueness and holiness of God’s name.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 3:13 is a reminder of the importance of knowing who God is. When we face challenges or when others question our faith, understanding God’s character and His name gives us confidence and authority. Just as Moses needed to know God’s name to lead the Israelites, we need to know God’s nature and promises to live out our faith effectively.
This verse also encourages us to seek God’s self-revelation in Scripture, where He makes Himself known to us. It’s a call to deepen our relationship with God so that we can confidently share our faith and stand firm in the face of challenges.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 3:13 shows God’s love in His willingness to reveal Himself to Moses and, by extension, to His people. God doesn’t leave Moses in uncertainty or doubt; He provides the reassurance that Moses needs. This act of self-revelation is a sign of God’s desire to be known and understood by His people, demonstrating His love and commitment to them.
God’s response to Moses’ question (in the following verses) reveals a God who is personal, present, and actively involved in the lives of His people. His love is shown in His desire to communicate His identity clearly, so His people can trust in Him fully.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 3:13 connects to Jesus Christ in the way that Jesus fully reveals the nature and character of God. Just as God revealed His name to Moses to affirm His identity and authority, Jesus reveals the Father to us. In John 14:9, Jesus says, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” Jesus embodies the “I AM,” showing us who God is in the most personal and intimate way.
Jesus also uses the phrase “I AM” multiple times in the Gospels (e.g., “I am the bread of life,” “I am the light of the world”), directly connecting Himself to the God who spoke to Moses at the burning bush. Through Jesus, we see the full revelation of God’s name, character, and saving power.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does understanding God’s name and character give you confidence in your faith and your calling?
- What challenges do you face that require a deeper understanding of who God is?
- How can you seek to know God more intimately, as Moses did, to prepare for the tasks He has for you?
- In what ways does Jesus’ revelation of God as “I AM” deepen your understanding of His divinity and His role in your life?
- How can you share the knowledge of God’s name and character with others who may have doubts or questions about your faith?