Exodus 12:35
And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:
Exodus 12:35
This verse shows the shared move from bondage toward freedom as the people “did according to the word of Moses” and borrowed from the Egyptians. The phrase indicates a cooperative participation: the people align their actions with Moses’ leadership, even as they leverage their Egyptian hosts’ wealth. The borrowing was not theft but a necessary transfer of goods that would later become a resource for the wilderness journey. It also reflects Egypt’s own complex relationship with Israel: a temporary, providential provisioning that plants seeds for future autonomy and covenant life.
This episode underscores divine sovereignty over worldly powers. God uses the Egyptians’ resources to fund and enable Israel’s exodus. It also emphasizes communal faith: the entire community participates in the transition, whether through obedience to leadership or through material provision. Theologically, God’s deliverance is not only spiritual but practical, meeting needs through divinely guided human actions.
Your community or church may need to borrow or share resources during a transition. Practical steps:
- Identify a tangible need for a project and seek legitimate, transparent support from partners.
- Follow wise leadership (and avoid deceit). Honor agreements and give credit to God as the source of provision.
- Reflect on how collective obedience can enable a larger mission, whether in a church plant, relief effort, or a personal goal.
Cross-References
- Genesis 33:10
- Philippians 4:19
- 2 Corinthians 9:8
- Psalm 23:1