Moses has a valid concern—Israel has not heard from God during their 400 years in Egypt (Genesis 15:13). He fled Egypt in disgrace (Exodus 2:15) and was not respected at the time (Exodus 2:14). Now, forty years later (Exodus 7:7; Acts 7:23), simply returning and making bold claims would not be enough to convince the people of Israel to follow him (Exodus 4:1). In response, the Lord grants him three miraculous signs to validate his mission. Our study will follow the outline below:

1. Moses’ Incredulity and God’s Signs of Confirmation (v.1-9)
2. Moses’ Deficiency in Speech and God’s Enablement (v.10-12)
3. Moses’ Reluctance and God’s Concession (v.13-17)

The first miraculous sign to validate Moses' mission is when Moses’ turns his staff into a serpent and then restores it. Second, He afflicts Moses’ hand with leprosy and then heals it. Lastly, if further proof is needed, Moses pours water from the Nile onto the ground, where it turns into blood. These signs not only serve as undeniable evidence of divine power but also affirm that God holds authority over animals, human health, and the natural world (Exodus 4:2-9).

Next, Moses voices his doubt, claiming he is not an eloquent speaker. Whether this was a genuine concern or exaggerated humility is unclear. God reassures Moses that He will provide the words he needs, urging him to trust in divine guidance. However, Moses resists and asks God to send someone else instead. Frustrated, the Lord points to Aaron, Moses’ brother, who is skilled in speech. As a result, Aaron is appointed to speak publicly, conveying the words that God gives to Moses (Exodus 4:10-17).

Getting Started                          

1. Have you ever made an excuse to get out of doing something that you knew was the right thing to do? Share your story.

•     Read Exodus 4:1-17

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or convicting?

Digging Deeper

3. What concerns does Moses express about his ability to lead, and how does God respond to each of them?   

4. Why does God tell Moses that He is the one who gives people the ability to speak (v.11-12), and how does this contrast with Moses’ hesitation? 

5. Compare God’s interaction with Moses in verses 2-9 and then in verse 14. How do these passages demonstrate both patience and authority? 

The Heart of the Matter

6. In what ways do the signs given to Moses point forward to Christ’s redemptive work? 

7. Moses focused on his weaknesses instead of God’s strength. How can shifting your perspective from your limitations to God's power change the way you approach challenges? 

8. God sent Aaron to support Moses. Who has God placed in your life to encourage and strengthen you in your faith journey?