The third chapter of Exodus is filled with revelation and interaction. It includes a theophany (the appearing of God) and the story of Moses’ call. Moses meets God for the first time in the burning bush, where God calls him to go back to Egypt. We are reminded of the oppression there and hear the first two of Moses’ five objections to God’s call. Exodus 3 gives the name of the Lord, repeats the promise of land to Abraham’s family, and predicts Pharaoh’s resistance. Finally, God promises to do “wonders” until the Egyptians let the people go and send them away with silver, gold, and clothing. The complete interaction continues through 4:17 and ideally should be read as one conversation.

3:1–6 The Lord God introduces himself to Moses. Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, th…