Why did God attempt to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26?

In the book of Exodus, we encounter a perplexing and somewhat enigmatic episode in Exodus 4:24-26, where God seemingly attempts to kill Moses. This passage has puzzled scholars, theologians, and believers for centuries. To understand this event, we must delve into the context, cultural background, and theological implications within the broader narrative of the Exodus story.

The verses in question read as follows:

"At a lodging place on the way, the Lord met Moses and was about to kill him. But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off her son's foreskin and touched Moses' feet with it. 'Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me,' she said. So the Lord let him alone. (At that time she said 'bridegroom of blood,' referring to circumcision.)" (Exodus 4:24-26, NIV)

Context and Cultural Background

To fully grasp this incident, we need to consider the broader narrative of Moses' life and mission. Moses had been called by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. This divine mission was of paramount importance, and Moses was to act as God's chosen instrument. However, there were certain covenantal obligations that Moses had to fulfill as part of his role and identity as a member of God's chosen people, Israel.

One crucial aspect of this covenant was circumcision. The practice of circumcision was instituted by God as a sign of His covenant with Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:9-14). It was a physical mark that signified belonging to God's people and adherence to His covenant. Failure to circumcise one's male children was seen as a serious breach of this covenant.

Theological Implications

The incident in Exodus 4:24-26 highlights the seriousness with which God regards His covenant and the necessity of obedience to His commands. Moses, as the leader and representative of the Israelites, had a special responsibility to uphold the covenantal requirements. It appears that Moses had neglected to circumcise his son, which was a significant oversight given his role and mission.

The severity of God's action in this passage underscores the importance of covenantal faithfulness. God's attempt to kill Moses can be seen as a divine intervention to correct a critical lapse in obedience. It serves as a stark reminder that those who are called to lead and represent God's people must themselves be in right standing with God and His covenant.

Zipporah's Intervention

Zipporah, Moses' wife, plays a crucial role in this narrative. Her quick and decisive action in circumcising their son and touching Moses' feet with the foreskin averts the impending danger. Her words, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me," indicate her recognition of the seriousness of the situation and the need to fulfill the covenantal requirement.

Zipporah's intervention not only saves Moses' life but also reinforces the importance of the covenantal sign of circumcision. Her actions demonstrate an understanding of the covenant and a willingness to act in accordance with God's commands, even in a moment of crisis.

Symbolism and Typology

Some scholars and theologians have also explored the symbolic and typological dimensions of this passage. Moses, as a type of Christ, prefigures the ultimate deliverer and mediator between God and humanity. Just as Moses had to be in right standing with God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Jesus, the sinless Son of God, perfectly fulfilled the requirements of the law to bring about the ultimate deliverance from sin and death.

The shedding of blood in the act of circumcision also foreshadows the shedding of blood in the New Covenant. Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, often referred to as the "bridegroom of blood" (Ephesians 5:25-27), established a new covenant between God and humanity. This connection between the Old and New Covenants highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history.

Lessons for Believers

For contemporary believers, this passage offers several important lessons. First, it emphasizes the seriousness of covenantal faithfulness and obedience to God's commands. While the specific requirement of circumcision is no longer applicable under the New Covenant, the principle of living in accordance with God's will remains central to the Christian life.

Second, it underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility that comes with it. Those who are called to lead and serve in the church must ensure that their own lives are in alignment with God's standards. This includes both personal holiness and adherence to the teachings of Scripture.

Third, the narrative highlights the role of family and community in upholding and supporting one's spiritual journey. Zipporah's intervention demonstrates the importance of mutual support and accountability within the family and the broader faith community.

Conclusion

The episode in Exodus 4:24-26, where God seemingly attempts to kill Moses, is a profound and thought-provoking passage that sheds light on the importance of covenantal faithfulness, obedience, and the seriousness with which God regards His commands. It serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of spiritual leadership and the necessity of living in accordance with God's will. Through Zipporah's decisive action, we see the vital role of family and community in supporting and upholding one's spiritual journey.

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, culminating in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the ultimate "bridegroom of blood." This narrative invites us to examine our own lives, ensuring that we are living faithfully and obediently as members of God's covenant community.