Exodus 6:30 – “But Moses said to the Lord, ‘Since I speak with faltering lips, why would Pharaoh listen to me?’”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 6:30 captures a moment of deep hesitation and self-doubt on the part of Moses. After receiving God’s command to go and speak to Pharaoh, Moses expresses his fear and uncertainty, questioning his ability to carry out such a daunting task. The phrase “faltering lips” (sometimes translated as “uncircumcised lips”) indicates Moses’ lack of confidence in his speaking abilities, which he believes disqualifies him from being an effective messenger to Pharaoh.
This verse reveals Moses’ humanity—his fears, his feelings of inadequacy, and his struggle to trust in God’s plan despite the overwhelming nature of the task before him. Moses’ question, “why would Pharaoh listen to me?” reflects his concern that his perceived weakness will prevent him from accomplishing what God has called him to do.
Historical Context
The historical context of Exodus 6:30 is the period when the Israelites were suffering under the harsh rule of the Egyptians. God had chosen Moses to lead His people out of slavery, but Moses was reluctant and fearful. Earlier, at the burning bush (Exodus 3-4), Moses had already expressed his doubts about his ability to speak effectively, and God had reassured him by appointing Aaron as his spokesperson.
This verse occurs just before Moses and Aaron begin the more intense phase of their mission, where they would confront Pharaoh repeatedly with God’s demands and witness the plagues that God would bring upon Egypt. The challenges Moses faced were immense, as he was not only dealing with his own insecurities but also the might of Egypt’s king, who was determined not to let the Israelites go.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 6:30 speaks to the theme of human weakness and divine strength. Moses’ admission of his “faltering lips” serves as a reminder that God often chooses and uses people who feel inadequate for the tasks He gives them. This verse illustrates that God’s power is made perfect in weakness, as Paul later writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9. Moses’ doubts did not disqualify him from being used by God; instead, they set the stage for God’s power to be demonstrated in a remarkable way.
This verse also highlights the importance of faith and trust in God’s calling. Even when we feel unqualified or incapable, God’s call is based on His knowledge of what He can accomplish through us, not on our own abilities. Moses’ question reflects a common human tendency to focus on our limitations rather than on God’s unlimited power.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 6:30 serves as a critical moment of tension in the narrative. It provides a contrast between Moses’ self-perception and God’s assurance. The verse is a direct expression of Moses’ internal struggle, giving the reader insight into his emotional and mental state as he prepares to confront Pharaoh.
This verse also functions as a prelude to the dramatic events that will follow, highlighting the theme of God using unlikely and seemingly unqualified individuals to accomplish His purposes. Moses’ hesitation adds depth to his character, making him more relatable and emphasizing the reality that even great leaders struggle with doubt.
Biblical Cross-References
Exodus 6:30 can be cross-referenced with several other passages that deal with themes of human weakness, divine calling, and God’s ability to work through those who feel inadequate:
- Exodus 4:10-12: Where Moses first expresses his concern about his speaking abilities and God reassures him.
- Jeremiah 1:6-8: Where the prophet Jeremiah expresses similar concerns about his youth and inability to speak, and God encourages him.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: Where Paul talks about boasting in his weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on him.
- Isaiah 6:5-8: Where Isaiah feels unworthy to be God’s messenger but is cleansed and called to service.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 6:30 is a powerful reminder that God’s call often comes despite our feelings of inadequacy. This verse encourages us to trust that God knows our weaknesses and chooses us anyway, not because of our abilities but because of His purpose and power. It challenges us to step out in faith, even when we feel unprepared or unworthy, trusting that God will equip us for the tasks He gives us.
This verse also reminds us that it’s okay to bring our doubts and fears to God. Moses didn’t hide his concerns from God; he voiced them honestly, and in response, God provided the assurance and support he needed. As believers, we can bring our anxieties and uncertainties to God, knowing that He understands and will help us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 6:30 reflects God’s love in His patience and understanding of Moses’ fears. God doesn’t rebuke Moses for his doubts; instead, He continues to work with him, providing the support of Aaron and the promise of His presence. This shows that God’s love is compassionate and patient, willing to guide us through our fears and doubts as we grow in faith.
God’s willingness to use Moses despite his weaknesses demonstrates His love in choosing and empowering us for His purposes, not because we are perfect, but because He loves us and wants to work through us. This verse shows that God’s love is not conditional on our abilities but is based on His desire to involve us in His redemptive plan.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in that it highlights the concept of divine calling and human inadequacy, themes that are fully realized in the New Testament. Just as Moses felt unworthy and inadequate, Jesus came to empower the weak and call the unqualified into His service. In the Gospels, Jesus consistently chose ordinary, flawed individuals—fishermen, tax collectors, and others—to be His disciples and to carry forward His mission.
In 1 Corinthians 1:27, Paul writes, “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.” This reflects the same principle seen in Moses’ calling—that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness. Jesus, as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan, embodies this truth by choosing and redeeming the weak, the broken, and the unworthy, making them instruments of His grace and truth.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Moses’ admission of his weaknesses in Exodus 6:30 encourage you when you feel inadequate for the tasks God has given you?
- In what ways can you trust God’s ability to work through your weaknesses rather than focusing on your limitations?
- How does this verse challenge you to bring your doubts and fears to God, trusting that He understands and will provide the support you need?
- What does it mean to you that God’s love is not based on your abilities but on His desire to involve you in His plans?
- How can you see Jesus’ example of choosing and empowering the weak as an encouragement in your own walk of faith?
Exodus 6:30 serves as a powerful reminder that God’s calling comes with His strength, not ours. It challenges us to trust in God’s power to work through our weaknesses and to step out in faith, even when we feel inadequate. Ultimately, this verse points us to Jesus Christ, who calls and empowers us to be part of His redemptive work in the world.