Moses – A Story of Faith and Deliverance

In this week’s sermon, we continued our exploration of the life of Moses, focusing on the theme of faith and deliverance. The story of Moses is deeply intertwined with the overarching narrative of God’s redemptive plan, which is evident throughout the Bible.

Key Scripture References

• Galatians 4:4: “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.”
• Genesis 41:38: Pharaoh recognizes the spirit of God in Joseph.
• Exodus 1-2: The birth and early life of Moses.
• Hebrews 11:23: By faith, Moses’ parents hid him for three months.
• Joshua 24:14: Encouragement to serve the Lord faithfully.
• 2 Chronicles 16:9: “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”

The Story of Moses

The narrative begins with the Israelites enslaved in Egypt, a time when a new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, rose to power. This Pharaoh, fearing the growing number of Israelites, enacted a genocidal decree to kill all Hebrew baby boys. However, the story of Moses begins with an act of defiance and faith by his parents, who hid him for three months.

The Role of Faith

• Active Faith: Moses’ parents demonstrated incredible faith by defying Pharaoh’s edict, a theme echoed in Hebrews 11:23. Their actions were driven by a fear of God rather than fear of man.
• Fear of God: This fear is described as “faith in selfless action.” It is the courage to act according to God’s will, even when it means standing against worldly powers.

The Deliverance Plan

• God’s Timing: Just as Jesus came “when the set time had fully come” (Galatians 4:4), Moses was born at a crucial time to deliver God’s people.
• Divine Protection: The midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, feared God and protected the Hebrew boys, including Moses, which was crucial for the deliverance plan.

Lessons for Today

1. God Works Through Faith: God often chooses to work through those who fear Him, as seen in the faith of Moses’ parents and the midwives. FB Meyer notes that God seeks the cooperation of man in fulfilling His purposes.
2. Fear of God vs. Fear of Man: The sermon challenges us to examine whether we truly fear God, which should lead to a life distinguishable from the world. The fear of God gives us the courage to resist societal pressures.
3. God’s Search for the Faithful: 2 Chronicles 16:9 reminds us that God is actively seeking those whose hearts are fully committed to Him, to strengthen them for His purposes.

Conclusion

The story of Moses is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of living a life of active faith. As we reflect on this narrative, we are encouraged to examine our own lives and ask if we are living in the fear of God, allowing Him to work through us to bring about change in the world. Let us be inspired by the courage of Moses’ parents and the midwives, and strive to be the faithful servants God seeks to advance His kingdom.