Then the LORDThis phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and Moses, highlighting the unique relationship Moses had with God as a prophet and leader of Israel. In the context of the Exodus narrative, it underscores God's active role in guiding and delivering His people. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the divine name YHWH, reflecting God's covenantal faithfulness and eternal presence with Israel. This divine name is first revealed to Moses in
Exodus 3:14, where God declares, "I AM WHO I AM."
said to Moses
Moses is the central human figure in the Exodus story, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. His role as a mediator between God and the people is crucial, as he receives divine instructions and conveys them to the Israelites. This communication is part of a larger narrative where God provides specific guidance for the Israelites' journey, demonstrating His sovereignty and the importance of obedience to His commands. Moses' leadership is a type of Christ, who is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, as seen in1 Timothy 2:5.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The LORD (Yahweh)The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is actively guiding and directing His people. In the Hebrew text, "Yahweh" is used, emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature.
2.
MosesThe chosen leader of the Israelites, through whom God communicates His will. Moses serves as a mediator between God and the people, demonstrating obedience and faith.
3.
The IsraelitesGod's chosen people, who are in the process of being delivered from slavery in Egypt. They are on a journey to the Promised Land, relying on God's guidance.
4.
EgyptThe land from which the Israelites are being delivered. It represents bondage and oppression, contrasting with the freedom God promises.
5.
The WildernessThe setting for the Israelites' journey, symbolizing both a place of testing and divine provision.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty and GuidanceGod is actively involved in the lives of His people, providing direction and purpose. Trusting in His sovereignty is crucial, especially in times of uncertainty.
The Role of LeadershipGod often uses leaders to communicate His will and guide His people. It is important to support and pray for those in leadership positions within the church and community.
Faith in ActionThe Israelites' journey requires faith and obedience. Believers today are called to step out in faith, trusting in God's promises and guidance.
Deliverance from BondageJust as God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He delivers us from spiritual bondage through Jesus Christ. Reflect on areas in life where you need God's deliverance.
The Wilderness ExperienceThe wilderness is a place of testing and growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities for spiritual development and reliance on God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 14:1?
2.How does Exodus 14:1 demonstrate God's guidance in difficult situations?
3.What can we learn about obedience from God's instructions in Exodus 14:1?
4.How does Exodus 14:1 connect with God's deliverance throughout Scripture?
5.How can we apply God's strategic planning in Exodus 14:1 to our lives?
6.What role does trust play in following God's commands in Exodus 14:1?
7.What historical evidence supports the events described in Exodus 14:1?
8.How does Exodus 14:1 fit into the overall narrative of the Exodus story?
9.What theological significance does Exodus 14:1 hold for understanding God's guidance?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 14?
11.What are the Names and Titles of God?
12.(Amos 2:9–10) Is there any archaeological or scientific evidence to support the miraculous overthrow of the Amorites and the exodus narrative?
13.How does Exodus 15:2 describe God's role for believers?
14.If Moses himself wrote Deuteronomy, how could he narrate his own death and burial (Deut. 34:5-6)?What Does Exodus 14:1 Mean
Then“Then” connects us to the flow of the story. Israel has just left Egypt (Exodus 13:17-22) and is camped by the Red Sea.
• The word marks God’s ongoing, step-by-step guidance—He never abandons His people midway (Psalm 37:23-24).
• It reminds us that divine timing is perfect; every directive follows exactly when it is needed (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
• Just as the previous verse ended with Israel obeying the cloudy-pillar leadership of God (Exodus 13:21-22), “Then” signals the next move in that same unwavering care.
the LORDThis is the covenant name, underscoring God’s unchanging faithfulness (Malachi 3:6).
• The same LORD who promised deliverance inExodus 6:6 is now directing the final stage of escape.
• His identity assures Israel—and us—of absolute authority over every obstacle, including Pharaoh’s army (Psalm 24:8).
• Because He is the LORD, His words carry certainty; none of His purposes can be thwarted (Job 42:2).
saidGod speaks; creation and history respond (Genesis 1:3).
• Every command is both revelation and power—what He speaks comes to pass (Isaiah 55:11).
• Israel’s survival depends not on their own insight but on the voice of God (Deuteronomy 8:3).
• In moments of crisis, God’s primary provision is often a fresh word of direction, just as Jesus later calmed storms with a word (Mark 4:39).
to MosesThe instruction is personal and specific.
• Moses, called at the burning bush (Exodus 3:10), continues to function as mediator between God and the nation.
• God chooses leaders to relay His guidance; the people are blessed when they listen (Hebrews 13:7).
• Moses’ obedience here prepares the stage for the miracle of the sea, showing whyNumbers 12:7-8 calls him faithful in all God’s house.
summaryExodus 14:1 may be brief—“Then the LORD said to Moses”—but it is loaded with hope. “Then” ties God’s new direction to His previous faithfulness; “the LORD” guarantees covenant power; “said” reveals that divine speech brings reality; “to Moses” highlights the chosen channel for deliverance. Together they reassure us that, in every tight spot, God still speaks, still leads, and still keeps His promises.
Verses 1-4. - THE DIRECTION OF THE JOURNEY CHANGED. Hitherto the march of the Israelites had been to the south-east. Another day's journey in this direction would have taken them beyond the limits of Egypt, into the desert region east of the Bitter Lakes, which was dry, treeless, and waterless. In this tract there would have been but scant nourishment for their flocks and herds, and absolutely no water for themselves, unless it had been obtained by miracle. God therefore changed the direction of their route from south-east to due south, and made them take a course by which they placed the Bitter Lakes on their left hand, and so remained within the limits of Egypt, in a district fairly well watered, but shut off from the wilderness by the Bitter Lakes and the northern prolongation of the Gulf of Suez, with which they were connected. This route suited the immediate convenience of the host; and, having no suspicion of any hostile movement on the part of the Egyptians, they - not unnaturally - made no objection to it. It had, however, the disadvantage, in case of a hostile movement, of shutting them in between their assailants on the one hand, and the sea upon the other; and this circumstance seems to have led Pharaoh to make his pursuit.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Then the LORDיְהֹוָ֖ה(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelsaidוַיְדַבֵּ֥ר(way·ḏab·bêr)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1696:To arrange, to speak, to subduetoאֶל־(’el-)Preposition
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, toMoses,מֹשֶׁ֥ה(mō·šeh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4872:Moses -- a great Israelite leader, prophet and lawgiver
Links
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OT Law: Exodus 14:1 Yahweh spoke to Moses saying (Exo. Ex) 
