The account in Exodus 18 opens with the arrival of Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, bringing Moses’ own family back to him after their separation due to the dangers Moses faced in Egypt (Exodus 18:1-6). Jethro, identified also as “the priest of Midian,” is an intriguing figure whose actions demonstrate God’s concern for all peoples, beyond the narrow confines of ethnic Israel. Jethro’s Midianite identity reminds us that God’s revelation and influence extended beyond the Hebrew nation, a crucial theological theme often overlooked by modern readers.
The warm greeting between Moses and Jethro depicts a respectful intergenerational and cross-cultural exchange. Moses shares his testimony—the mighty deeds God had performed against Egypt and His divine provision through trials. This sincere exchange of testimony moves Jethro to praise the Lord, expressing faith and recognition of Yahweh’s supremacy. Notice especially Jethro’s exclamation, “Now I know that the LORD is greater than all other gods” (Exodus 18:11, New International Version). His statement reveals that God’s deliverance serves an evangelistic purpose, intended to proclaim His glory among all peoples.
Cross-reference: Psalm 96:3 - “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples” (New International Version).
Verse 12 depicts Jethro offering sacrifices to God, followed by a communal meal shared with the elders of Israel. In Ancient Near Eastern culture, shared meals signified peace, friendship, fellowship, and often the ratification of covenants. Jethro’s participation underscores harmonious relationships and acknowledges peace between Midianites and the newly formed community of Israelites. This instance also provides future precedent for Gentile inclusion in worship and fellowship, foreshadowing the unity in Christ proclaimed in the New Testament.
Cross-reference: Acts 10:34-35, where Peter expresses realization about Gentiles’ inclusion: “God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (New International Version).
In verses 13-27, we find a truly profound moment: Jethro notices Moses laboring alone, overwhelmed as the single judge and spiritual leader among thousands of Israelites. Recognizing the unsustainable burden Moses carries, Jethro wisely advises him to delegate responsibilities, to raise up capable leaders who love truth and fear God, and to spare himself—thus ensuring effective governance and preserving Moses for his primary task as mediator between God and Israel.
Western readers often overlook the significance of this episode, seeing it as merely “management advice.” However, ancient Israelites reading this account would have understood it as profoundly theological: effective leadership, compassion, wisdom, humility, and collaboration reflect the very character of God. Moreover, it reinforces a theological truth that God’s work is vast and cannot depend on one individual alone. It highlights community, shared responsibility, and humility as virtues essential for any spiritual endeavor.
Historically, many Christian scholars and leaders, including church fathers and reformers like John Calvin and Martin Luther, have pointed to this passage as foundational for understanding leadership—especially emphasizing the importance of pastors relying upon elders, deacons, and gifted members of the body.
Cross-reference: Acts 6:1-7, an early church example of delegation and distributing responsibilities among faithful believers.
An interesting Hebrew term from this passage is “yāʿaṣ” (יַעַץ), meaning to counsel or advise (used in Exodus 18:19). Jethro’s wisdom reflects a mindful approach to leadership that merges spiritual discernment with practical management. Also noteworthy is the criterion provided by Jethro that leaders must be “men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain” (Exodus 18:21, New International Version). The Hebrew employed here conveys moral uprightness, intimate reverence, and integrity—values integral to wise governance even today.
Three theological insights emerge strongly from Exodus 18:
The Universality of God’s Purpose: God’s purpose extends beyond ethnic exclusivity, challenging believers today to acknowledge and reach beyond cultural divides with humility and grace.
Collaboration and Shared Ministry: Ministry is not meant to be a solo venture—not even for great prophets like Moses. A proper spiritual vision involves shared responsibilities, respecting giftedness, and promoting unity.
Faithful Testimony: The power of personal and communal testimony about God’s mighty deeds is profound. Moses’ account of God’s work moved Jethro to deeper worship—reminding us that our words and accounts of God’s activity can have transformative outcomes.
As we meditate on the themes of unity, wisdom, and delegated ministry, we are reminded of the beautiful prayerful hymn “We Are God’s People” by Bryan Jeffery Leech and Fred Bock. Reflecting the sense of community, shared responsibility, and mutual dependence, this hymn eloquently brings into focus that every believer’s gift and service is significant within God’s family.
“We are God’s people, the chosen of the Lord,
Born of His Spirit, established by His Word;
Our cornerstone is Christ alone, and strong in Him we stand:
Oh let us live transparently, and walk heart to heart and hand in
hand.”
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your wisdom and care presented clearly through the life of Moses and the wise counsel of Jethro. Teach us to humbly share Your work, knowing that we were not created to bear alone the burdens of ministry. Grant us eyes to recognize Your hand at work beyond our familiar comfort zones, so Your Kingdom may flourish richly among us. Remind us always that our lives represent testimonies of Your power and love, bringing glory and honor to You among all nations. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Leader, Our Counselor, and our Savior. Amen.