“Because the midwives feared God, He established households for them.” Exodus 1:21
In the opening Chapter of Exodus, we read of Joseph’s death, as well as his brothers, and a whole new generation of Israelites being born. We are told that “the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them.” At the same time we read that “a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph” and of his concern for the safety and welfare of his fellow Egyptians. He reasoned, “in the event of war, they will also join those who hate us, and fight against us.” And his Solution? Cut back the Jewish population by putting all the male babies to death.
But in Today’s Verse, we have the Jews deliverance. The midwives refused to obey this directive to them by Pharaoh! And why was that? Here we are told, they “feared God”. Rather than fear Pharaoh, who had the power to put them to death, they chose to fear God. And why was that? The Law had not been given that forbid Murder! Because the Law of God had been written on their hearts. Their Consciences testified that they could not take a Life, even that of a Newborn Child.
In the same way, God has made Himself known to every Human being. He instinctively knows when he sins and that he is guilty, “even without God’s Law”!!! This is why Paul can say in Romans 1, All Mankind is “without excuse”! This is why he can tell us “All Have Sinned”! Not because we have somehow, and/or ignorantly broken His Law. But because we have done so Instinctively and Knowingly. That is why the Gospel, the Good News, is so GOOD! Jesus came to Save Sinners of which our consciences have screamed GUILTY! Let us praise Him for this early work of Grace!