Commentary on Exodus 2:2

Verse Reference: Exodus 2:2 - "And the woman conceived, and bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months."

Introduction

This verse marks a significant moment in the life of Moses and the early narrative of the Israelites' oppression in Egypt. The birth of Moses occurs against a backdrop of great danger where Pharaoh has commanded the murder of all Hebrew male infants. The content of this verse opens up a rich area of theological reflection and interpretation, suitable for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars alike.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry provides a thorough examination of Moses' birth, noting that the woman who bore him, Jochebed, acted out of deep faith and affection. He highlights the intrinsic value of life, as she perceived her child as "a goodly child." Henry stresses the importance of parental love and the protective instincts that drive a mother to shield her child from danger. This instinct bears a significant spiritual parallel, where God’s providence is evident in protecting His chosen people.

• Faith in Adversity: Henry remarks that Jochebed’s action of concealing her son for three months was a bold testament to her faith in God amidst widespread fear and legal danger. This shows a profound courage that believers can draw inspiration from.
• The Goodly Child: The term “goodly” conveys not only physical beauty but also implies a divine purpose. Henry references how God’s choices often contradict human expectations, indicating that Moses was selected for a significant role in God’s redemptive history.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes provides a practical lens through which to understand this verse. He emphasizes the sociopolitical context in which Moses was born, noting that the Hebrew women were under great duress. Barnes points out that Jochebed’s act of hiding her son may have been influenced by her understanding of God’s promises and the prophetic hope that a deliverer would arise for the Hebrew people.

• Divine Intervention: Barnes discusses the notion of divine intervention in Moses’ life. Despite the dark circumstances, Jochebed’s proactive behavior can be viewed as a channel through which God’s plans begin to unfold.
• Symbolic Significance: Barnes highlights that Moses’ birth represents a turning point for Israel. The commentary reflects on how Moses emerges as a symbol of hope and deliverance for the Israelites, underscoring God's faithfulness to His covenant.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides an additional theological perspective that enriches the analysis of Exodus 2:2. He discusses the family lineage of Moses, emphasizing Jochebed's descent and the implications it held for Moses' identity and future mission. Clarke's analysis points to the deeper significance of parental legacy in shaping God's servants.

• Covenantal Themes: Clarke indicates that the mention of Moses being "goodly" connects back to God’s covenant with the patriarchs. It represents not just a personal evaluation but a reminder of the expectations tied to Israel’s identity.
• God’s Sovereignty: Clarke underscores the theme of God’s sovereignty throughout the unfolding events. The verse previews how God’s plans for redemption are initiated through ordinary people who respond with faith, thereby becoming instruments of His will.

Theological Themes

Exodus 2:2 raises profound theological themes that resonate through the entirety of Scripture:

• Preservation of Life: The act of concealing Moses echoes the biblical principle that life is sacred. It challenges believers to affirm the value of life in all circumstances.
• Faith and Action: Jochebed's response exemplifies how faith is active, not passive. Believers are called to take courageous steps in faith, trusting God’s providence amid trials.
• God’s Plan of Redemption: The birth of Moses is emblematic of God's overarching plan to bring deliverance to His people. Scholars observe that Moses not only leads his people out of Egypt but is also a prototype of the ultimate Deliverer, Christ.
• Divine Providence: The hidden nature of Moses’ early life reflects how God often works in ways that may be hidden to human eyes. It instills a sense of hope that God is guiding history toward His intended purposes, even in times of despair.

Conclusion

Exodus 2:2 serves as a rich text for exploration and reflection on the themes of faith, divine purpose, and the significance of God’s providential care. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke converge to highlight how this verse is not merely historical; it speaks volumes to contemporary believers about the nature of God’s involvement in the lives of His people. As pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars delve into this verse, they are reminded of the extraordinary ways God prepares His instruments for His purposes, even in the face of oppression and despair.