Intro:
The account of Israel’s bondage in Egypt and Moses is called by God (Exodus 1–6 summary) opens the Book of Exodus with powerful themes of oppression, faith, and deliverance. Over centuries, the descendants of Jacob grow from a small family into a large, distinct nation living within Egypt. What begins as a story of blessing soon turns into a season of deep suffering under a Pharaoh who fears their numbers. Yet behind the scenes, God is already raising up His chosen leader, Moses, to confront Pharaoh and lead His people into freedom — a plan that shows His sovereignty and faithfulness.
Exodus 1 – Israel’s Bondage in Egypt
Israel’s bondage in Egypt begins when a new Pharaoh, who does not know Joseph’s legacy, comes to power. The Hebrews’ growing population alarms him, and he fears they might ally with Egypt’s enemies in times of war. His solution is oppression: forced labor in the building of store cities and heavy burdens meant to weaken them. But even under harsh treatment, God blesses Israel, and they multiply.
Pharaoh escalates his cruelty by ordering the Hebrew midwives to kill all newborn boys. In a remarkable act of faith, the midwives fear God and refuse, protecting the lives of many children. This chapter shows how God’s purposes cannot be undone by human schemes, echoing Proverbs 19:21.
Read full Exodus 1 account and lessons here.
Exodus 2 – Birth and Early Life of Moses
Amid Israel’s bondage in Egypt, a Levite couple gives birth to a son — Moses. His mother hides him for three months, but when she can no longer conceal him, she places him in a papyrus basket coated with tar and pitch, setting it among the reeds of the Nile. Pharaoh’s daughter finds the baby and, moved with compassion, adopts him. In a divine twist, she unknowingly hires Moses’ own mother to nurse him, reminiscent of God’s providence in Genesis 50:20.
Moses grows up in Pharaoh’s household, learning Egyptian culture and leadership skills. As an adult, he kills an Egyptian who is beating a Hebrew slave and flees to Midian. There, he defends the daughters of Reuel (Jethro), marries Zipporah, and becomes a shepherd — all part of God’s preparation for his calling.
Read full Exodus 2 account and lessons here.
Exodus 3 – Moses is Called By God at the Burning Bush
In one of Scripture’s most significant moments, Moses is called by God while tending sheep near Mount Horeb. He notices a bush engulfed in flames yet not consumed. God calls his name and commands him to remove his sandals, for he stands on holy ground. God identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, declaring that He has seen the suffering of His people and is sending Moses to deliver them. This calling parallels Isaiah’s later vision in Isaiah 6, where God also commissions a servant to speak on His behalf. Moses hesitates, questioning his worthiness, but God promises His presence. He reveals His name — I AM THAT I AM — affirming His eternal nature and authority.
Read full Exodus 3 account and lessons here.
Exodus 4 – Signs, Reluctance, and the Journey Back
Moses is called by God but still hesitates, concerned about Israel’s unbelief and his lack of eloquence. God equips him with three miraculous signs: his staff turning into a serpent, his hand becoming leprous and then healed, and Nile water turning into blood. These signs recall God’s pattern of confirming His messengers, as seen later in the ministries of Elijah and Elisha. To address Moses’ concerns, God appoints Aaron, his brother, as spokesman. Empowered and reassured, Moses returns to Egypt, carrying the rod of God, ready to confront Pharaoh with divine authority.
Read full Exodus 4 account and lessons here.
Exodus 5 – Pharaoh’s Harsh Response
When Moses and Aaron deliver God’s command — “Let My people go” — Pharaoh responds with defiance. Instead of relenting, he intensifies Israel’s bondage in Egypt by withholding straw for brick-making while keeping the same production quota. This mirrors the resistance Nehemiah faced when rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, where opposition only grew more hostile. The people, overwhelmed by their new burden, blame Moses for worsening their situation. Moses turns to God in frustration, seeking assurance that the mission is still according to His plan.
Read full Exodus 5 account and lessons here.
Exodus 6 – God’s Covenant Promise Reaffirmed
God responds with a powerful reaffirmation of His covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He declares that He will deliver His people with a mighty hand and redeem them with great judgments. Although the people are too discouraged to believe, Moses is called by God remains steadfast, trusting that God’s promises will be fulfilled. This moment connects to Hebrews 11:27, which speaks of Moses’ perseverance as seeing “Him who is invisible.”
Read full Exodus 6 account and lessons here.
Conclusion:
Israel’s bondage in Egypt and Moses is called by God reveal God’s unshakable plan to redeem His people despite human resistance and hardship. From divine preservation at Moses’ birth to the revelation of God’s name, these chapters show that His promises are sure and His calling equips those He chooses. They remind us that God’s mission moves forward even through opposition.
For a deep dive into Genesis, see the Genesis Chapter-by-Chapter Review and read the full text in the Book of Exodus (KJV).