God's Campaign Against Egypt
Exodus 3:13-22
Excerpt
After answering Moses’ protest of ignorance regarding the divine name, God outlined the entire campaign against Egypt.
First, Moses was to go to the elders of Israel and tell them that God had appeared to him. He was to communicate to them God’s concern for their plight, and his promise to bring them out of Egypt to a wonderful land. The land promise which had been given to the patriarchs was now renewed through Moses. Thus, as with any true prophet, the message of Moses was in agreement with earlier revelation. God assured Moses that the elders would believe him.
Second, the elders and Moses were then to go to Pharaoh to announce the appearance of God. They were to request permission to make a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to him. Pharaoh would not listen.
Third, God would smite Egypt with wonders, i.e., miraculous judgments.
Fourth, before they left Egypt the Israelites would plunder Egypt. This also conforms to the promise made to Abraham (cf. Gn 15:14). Softened by blows from God, the Egyptians generously would bestow upon their former captives articles of gold and silver as well as clothing. The God of Israel would triumph so thoroughly over Egypt that women and children would carry away the spoils.More
Smith, James E. The Pentateuch. 2nd ed. Joplin, MO: College Press Pub. Co., 1993. Print. Old Testament Survey Series
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