Why was God going to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26?

1. Summary of the Question

The question, “Why was God going to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26?” focuses on a perplexing and seemingly abrupt event in the narrative of Moses’ mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This passage describes a moment when God sought to kill Moses, but the situation was resolved when Zipporah, Moses’ wife, circumcised their son. Understanding this incident requires exploring the biblical context, the covenantal significance of circumcision, and the theological themes of obedience and covenant faithfulness.

2. Context and Background

To understand why God was going to kill Moses in this passage, it is essential to consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of the Book of Exodus. Moses had just been commissioned by God at the burning bush to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt (Exodus 3-4). As Moses was traveling back to Egypt with his family, the Lord confronted him in a life-threatening manner. This passage must be understood against the backdrop of the Abrahamic covenant, which required all male descendants to be circumcised as a sign of the covenant between God and His people (Genesis 17:9-14).

Circumcision was a critical marker of Israel’s identity and covenant relationship with God. The failure to circumcise a male child was a serious breach of this covenant. Moses, as the leader chosen to deliver Israel, was expected to uphold the covenantal requirements. His neglect in this regard could have signaled disobedience or a lack of reverence for God’s commands.

3. Biblical Foundation (NASB 2020)

Several key scriptures provide insight into why God was going to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26:

• Exodus 4:24-26 (NASB 2020): “Now it came about at the lodging place on the way that the Lord met him and sought to put him to death. Then Zipporah took a flint and cut off her son’s foreskin and threw it at Moses’ feet, and she said, ‘You are indeed a bridegroom of blood to me.’ So He let him alone. At that time she said, ‘You are a bridegroom of blood’—because of the circumcision.” This passage depicts a sudden divine encounter where Moses’ life was threatened, resolved only by the immediate circumcision of his son by Zipporah.
• Genesis 17:10-14 (NASB 2020): “This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. And you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall be the sign of the covenant between Me and you… But an uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My covenant.” This passage establishes the importance of circumcision as a covenantal requirement, providing context for the seriousness of Moses’ neglect.
• Exodus 4:21-23 (NASB 2020): “And the Lord said to Moses, ‘When you go back to Egypt see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders which I have put in your power; but I will harden his heart so that he will not let the people go. Then you shall say to Pharaoh, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Israel is My son, My firstborn. So I said to you, “Let My son go that he may serve Me”; but you have refused to let him go. Behold, I will kill your son, your firstborn.’”’” This context emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting the gravity of Moses’ failure to maintain the covenant sign.

These passages together illustrate that Moses’ failure to circumcise his son was a breach of the covenant, which required immediate correction to avoid divine judgment.

4. Addressing Other Perspectives

Some scholars suggest that the narrative in Exodus 4:24-26 reflects a primitive or archaic view of God that may appear harsh or punitive. Others propose that this incident is a unique theophany meant to emphasize the seriousness of the covenant, serving as a warning to Moses and the Israelites about the importance of obedience.

The perspective that aligns with a holistic biblical understanding recognizes that God’s confrontation with Moses is rooted in His covenantal faithfulness and His demand for obedience. Moses, as the leader of God’s chosen people, had to exemplify covenant fidelity. This interpretation aligns with the broader biblical theme that God desires obedience and reverence for His commands, especially from those called to lead His people.

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5. Clarifying Misunderstandings

A common misconception is that God’s actions in this passage are arbitrary or overly harsh. However, the Bible consistently portrays God as just and righteous. The context indicates that God’s response was related to Moses’ failure to fulfill the covenant obligation of circumcision, which had deep spiritual significance. Another misunderstanding is that God’s anger was directed at Moses personally rather than his disobedience to the covenant. God’s actions are not arbitrary but are based on the covenant relationship established with His people.

6. Practical Application and Relevance

For Christians today, this passage underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the seriousness with which God views His covenant with His people. It reminds believers that leaders, in particular, are called to a high standard of faithfulness and that negligence in spiritual responsibilities can have significant consequences. However, it also highlights God’s mercy and the possibility of restoration through repentance and proper action.

Practical reflections for Christians include:

• Prioritize Obedience: Recognize the importance of obeying God’s commands and understanding the spiritual significance behind them.
• Understand Covenant Responsibilities: Just as Moses was held accountable for upholding the covenant, believers today should understand their covenant responsibilities in Christ.
• Seek Restoration: When faced with disobedience or spiritual neglect, take immediate steps to rectify the situation, trusting in God’s mercy and grace.

7. Encouragement and Conclusion

The Bible teaches that God was going to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26 because of a serious breach of the covenant regarding circumcision. However, this event also demonstrates God’s readiness to relent when proper steps are taken to honor His commands. Christians are encouraged to walk in obedience, recognizing the gravity of spiritual responsibilities and the grace of God that offers restoration. May this passage inspire deeper commitment to God’s covenant and a heart that seeks to love what God loves and hate what He hates.