Exodus 13:14
And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:
EXODUS 13:14
This verse centers the family catechesis that becomes a hallmark of Israel’s faith: future generations will ask about their distinctive practices. The duty is to tell the story of redemption—the strength of God’s mighty hand that brought Israel out of Egypt, bondage, and oppression. The phrase “in time to come” signals a pedagogical and liturgical memory that binds each generation to the exodus experience. The context is a covenantal community where history serves as instruction: children learn not only laws but the Giver of those laws, the God who acts decisively in history. This is not merely a children's lesson; it’s a enduring framework for how God works in time, how faith is transmitted, and how worship is anchored in remembered mercy. The “strong hand” imagery reinforces divine power and intentionality in salvation.
The passage emphasizes revelation through memory: God acts in history to form a people. It foregrounds God’s deliverance as a liberating act from bondage, which becomes the rationale for future worship and obedience. It also highlights the role of parents, elders, and the community in transmitting faith: faith is generated and maintained by storytelling that centers on God’s acts, not just doctrinal statements. Theologically, this builds a robust understanding of salvation as past and present: what God did in Egypt continues to shape identity, worship, and trust in Him today. It also foreshadows the importance of the law and covenant as living practice tied to memory of rescue.
Practically, this verse invites families to cultivate intergenerational faith conversations. When a child asks, “Why do we do this?” parents can share the core story of God’s liberation—how His power saves, not because humans are worthy, but because He is gracious. In church settings, it remains vital to retell God’s saving acts in ways that connect ancient events to modern life—celebrating freedom from whatever enslaves us today: fear, guilt, or harmful patterns. Personal practice can include journaling the “strong hand” moments—times when you saw God intervene, answered prayers, or delivered you from danger. Use these stories to anchor hope and obedience, especially when life feels uncertain.
Cross-References: Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm 78:1-7; Exodus 12:26-27; Joshua 4:21-24; Psalm 105:5