Understanding Exodus 1:21
Exodus 1:21 states, "And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses." This verse reflects the faithfulness of the midwives in Egypt who disobeyed Pharaoh's commands to kill Hebrew infants. Instead, they chose to protect the lives of the children, demonstrating their steadfast faith in God.
Key Themes and Interpretations
- Fear of God: The midwives' reverence for God is paramount in understanding their actions. They recognized God's authority over Pharaoh's decree.
- Divine Favor: The phrase "he made them houses" indicates God's blessing. This can be interpreted as a form of reward for their obedience to God's moral law over human authority.
- Resistance to Injustice: The midwives' courage serves as a powerful example of standing against tyranny and injustice, highlighting the value of safeguarding innocent lives.
Commentary Insights
- Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that the midwives' actions demonstrate that reverence for God leads to protection and provision, and God's favor often follows righteous acts.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes points out the significance of God's intervention in preserving these women and how their loyalty was pivotal in the survival of the Hebrew people.
- Adam Clarke: Clarke notes that "made them houses" may imply families or households, suggesting that God blessed them with a legacy in contrast to Pharaoh's oppressive rule.
Bible Verse Cross-References
- Hebrews 11:23: Discusses the faith of Moses' parents in hiding him as a baby.
- Acts 5:29: States the principle of obeying God rather than men, aligning with the midwives' actions.
- Proverbs 16:7: Suggests that when a man's ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
- Exodus 2:1-10: Details the birth and preservation of Moses, highlighting God's deliverance even amidst oppression.
- Job 4:6: Speaks to the importance of the fear of God and its protective nature in a believer's life.
- 1 Peter 3:14: Encourages believers to not fear threats, but to remain steadfast in faith.
- Luke 1:50: "His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation," reflecting on God's mercy towards the faithful.
Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts
This verse can be explored through various tools for Bible cross-referencing, which highlight thematic connections in the Scriptures. Such cross-reference studies can lead to a deeper understanding of how individual actions in Exodus resonate with broader biblical narratives.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
- Bible concordance
- Bible cross-reference guide
- Cross-reference Bible study
Connections Between Bible Verses
Identifying connections between the Old and New Testament is crucial for understanding the interweaving themes of faith, obedience, and divine providence. For example, the obedience exhibited in Exodus is mirrored in the New Testament’s call for believers to uphold God’s commandments against coercive forces.
How to Use Bible Cross-References
When studying Bible verses related to specific themes, it is beneficial to examine the context of individual passages. Determining how they interrelate can yield insightful revelations. Tools such as the Bible reference resources and comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials can assist in this study.
Bible Verse Parallels
Exploring genealogical lines, actions of parallel characters, and prophetic fulfillments can be a fulfilling aspect of cross-referencing Bible verses. Each verse serves to deepen our understanding of God's character and His interaction with humanity throughout history.
