Exodus 3:3 – “So Moses thought, ‘I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 3:3 captures Moses’ reaction to the remarkable sight of the burning bush. As a shepherd, Moses was used to the wilderness and the natural world, but this event was anything but ordinary. The bush was on fire, yet it was not being consumed by the flames. This unusual phenomenon piqued Moses’ curiosity, prompting him to investigate further. His decision to “go over and see this strange sight” reflects a moment of decision that would change his life forever. It marks the point where Moses transitions from a passive observer of the miraculous to an active participant in God’s plan.
Moses’ reaction is one of curiosity and openness to the unknown. He is drawn to the sight, not fully understanding what it is, but willing to explore it. This verse highlights the importance of being attentive to the unusual or unexpected ways in which God might choose to reveal Himself.
Historical Context
At this point in the story, Moses had been living in Midian for about forty years, tending sheep for his father-in-law, Jethro. This was a far cry from his earlier life in Egypt, where he was raised in Pharaoh’s household. By this time, Moses was likely in his eighties, and his life had settled into a routine that probably felt far removed from the royal courts of Egypt.
The location of this event, Mount Horeb, also known as Mount Sinai, was significant in the history of Israel. It was here that God would later give Moses the Ten Commandments, establishing a covenant with the people of Israel. The burning bush event was the beginning of Moses’ journey back to Egypt, where he would confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of slavery.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 3:3 emphasizes the importance of human response to divine revelation. God could have chosen to speak directly to Moses without the burning bush, but He used this miraculous sign to capture Moses’ attention and provoke a response. This illustrates a key principle: God often invites us to seek and respond to Him, rather than forcing His will upon us.
Moses’ willingness to approach the bush shows a heart that is open to encountering God. This openness is crucial for anyone who seeks to understand and follow God’s will. The verse also hints at the mystery of God’s ways—He often uses the unexpected to reveal profound truths.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 3:3 is a moment of suspense and curiosity in the narrative. The verse builds anticipation for the reader, who, like Moses, is intrigued by the burning bush. The phrase “I will go over and see this strange sight” reflects the inner dialogue of Moses, offering a glimpse into his thought process and setting the stage for his encounter with God.
This verse serves as a bridge between the introduction of the burning bush and the direct communication between God and Moses. It highlights the transition from the ordinary (Moses tending sheep) to the extraordinary (God revealing Himself).
Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 7:31: Stephen, in his speech before the Sanhedrin, recounts Moses’ encounter with the burning bush, emphasizing Moses’ curiosity and desire to understand the sight.
- Hebrews 11:27: By faith, Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible, reflecting the faith that began with his encounter at the burning bush.
- Exodus 33:18-20: Moses later asks to see God’s glory, showing his continued desire to know and understand God more deeply.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 3:3 teaches the importance of paying attention to the ways God might be trying to get our attention. Just as Moses was drawn to the burning bush, we too should be open to the ways God might reveal Himself in our lives, often in unexpected or “strange” ways. It challenges us to be curious, to seek understanding, and to be willing to step out of our routine to engage with God’s calling.
This verse also reminds us that God is not limited to the conventional or the ordinary. He often uses the extraordinary to draw us closer to Him and to reveal His purposes for our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s loving nature in how He reaches out to Moses in a way that captures his attention and invites him into a deeper relationship. God didn’t overwhelm Moses with His presence but instead used a sign that would intrigue and draw Moses in. This reflects God’s gentle and loving approach in guiding us toward His will, allowing us the space to respond freely.
God’s love is evident in His desire to communicate with Moses and, by extension, with us. He initiates contact in a way that respects our freedom to choose how we will respond.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 3:3 can be connected to Jesus Christ in the way that God reaches out to humanity. Just as God used the burning bush to draw Moses closer, Jesus came into the world in a way that drew people to Him. Jesus often used parables and signs to capture the attention of His listeners, inviting them to seek deeper understanding. In John 12:32, Jesus says, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” Like the burning bush, Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are signs that draw people to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when you encounter something unusual or unexpected that might be God trying to get your attention?
- In what ways can you cultivate a sense of curiosity and openness to God’s work in your life?
- What “burning bush” moments have you experienced, where God was drawing you into a deeper understanding of His will?
- How does Moses’ willingness to investigate the burning bush challenge you to step out of your comfort zone in your faith journey?
- How does this verse inspire you to seek and recognize God’s presence in the ordinary moments of your life?