The Staff Becomes a Sign

Exodus 3:1–4:17

The Big Idea

When we feel unsure about what God asks us to do, God can give help and courage. We can bring our questions to him.

The Bible Story

Moses and the Burning Bush

In Exodus 4:1–9, Moses worries that the Israelites may not believe or listen to him. God asks what Moses has in his hand. Moses answers, “A staff.” God tells him to throw it on the ground, and it becomes a snake. When Moses takes the snake by the tail, it becomes a staff again. God gives this sign so the Israelites may believe that the LORD, the God of their ancestors, appeared to Moses. God also gives Moses further signs involving his hand and water from the Nile. This moment occurs while God is calling Moses to bring the Israelites out of Egypt. The staff becoming a snake is one of the signs God provides to address Moses’ fear and support his message. The passage does not present Moses performing these signs publicly at this point.

Themes

Calling and obedience Courage despite fear God provides help God’s compassion for Israel’s suffering God’s holy presence God’s name and faithfulness Signs confirming God’s message

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Moses holds his staff as God gives him signs to help the Israelites believe his message. One clear, child-friendly moment shows the staff on the ground becoming a snake, while Moses remains safely at a respectful distance.

Talk together

Talk about it

Why was the staff becoming a snake a helpful sign for Moses?
How can God’s help give courage when you feel unsure?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to discuss Moses’ questions, God’s signs, and courage that depends on God’s help rather than on feeling fearless. Invite children to notice that the sign is given privately to Moses and is not a frightening performance. Keep the other signs brief and non-graphic. This illustration works well for Exodus lessons about calling, obedience, and trusting God’s promises.

Source note