Exodus 18:1
When Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses’ father in law, heard of all that God had done for Moses, and for Israel his people, and that the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt;
Exodus 18:1
In Exodus 18:1, we encounter Jethro, priest of Midian, Moses’ father-in-law, arriving after hearing about God’s mighty acts. The moment signals more than a family reunion: it marks a pivotal meeting where Naaman-like recognition occurs—the outsider recognizes what the Israelites experience firsthand. Jethro’s title, “priest of Midian,” situates him within a lineage of spiritual leadership distinct from Israel’s worship yet respectful of the God who has shown power. This verse follows the dramatic deliverance at the Red Sea and the wilderness trek, setting the stage for Jethro’s practical counsel later in the chapter. Culturally, hospitality and kinship were central; Jethro’s approach to Moses—bringing family, acknowledging divine acts, and seeking relationship—reflects communal alignment with God’s redemptive work. Historically, it’s also a reminder that neighboring peoples witnessed Israel’s deliverance and had reverent, even transformative, responses. The verse foreshadows how leadership and governance within the Israelite camp will need outside wisdom alongside prophetic authority.
This verse foregrounds God’s works as public, communal events that transcend ethnic boundaries. The acknowledgement by Jethro that “the LORD had brought Israel out” signals universal recognition of divine sovereignty. It introduces the theme that salvation invites humility, gratitude, and communal discernment beyond Israel’s borders. Jethro’s role as a priest of Midian hints at the integrity of leadership from other faith communities when aligned with God’s deeds. The verse also reinforces God’s initiative in establishing a people: deliverance precedes doctrine, worship, and governance. It foreshadows the later inclusion of non-Israelites in blessing and governance as wisdom is shared. Theologically, this moment anchors the idea that God’s acts compel praise, recognition, and responsible stewardship within the community.
Like Jethro, recognize and celebrate God’s work beyond your circle. When neighbors or colleagues see how God has moved in your life, welcome their insights and learn from their perspective. Practically, this can mean inviting mentors from outside your tradition to speak into your leadership or family decisions. It also invites gratitude and humility: give credit to God publicly, not just privately. In our noisy world, model a posture of receptivity—learn from stories of others who see God at work, even if their language differs. As a family or church, create spaces where outsiders can share how they perceive God’s acts among you, turning observers into participants in the drama of redemption. This openness strengthens trust and broadens understanding, mirroring how God uses diverse voices to illuminate truth.
Cross-References: Joshua 24:15; Psalm 67:2-4; Acts 14:1-3; Romans 15:7; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23