Exodus 3 — burning bush; Moses' excuses; God's promises and presence.
📖 3 min read · 3 worked examples · 6 practice questions
Today we'll explore the story of Moses and the amazing burning bush in Exodus chapter 3. First, let's recall who Moses is. He was a shepherd who later became God's great leader and law‑giver. Next, we'll look at the setting—Moses was tending his flock near Mount Horeb when he saw a bush that was on fire but didn't burn up. Finally, we'll identify Moses' excuses—"Who am I?" and "What if the people don't listen?"—and how God answered each one. By the end of our lesson, you'll know Moses' background, the burning bush scene, and the dialogue that sparked God's mission for Moses.
Everyone, let's look at today's story: the Burning Bush – what actually happened? First, Moses was tending his sheep on Mount Horeb. While he was watching over the flock, he noticed something unusual. He saw a bush that was on fire, yet the bush was not burning up. God was showing Himself in a way that amazed Moses. Then, right in the middle of that miracle, God called out, "Moses!" So remember: a shepherd, a mysterious fire that didn't consume, and a personal call from God—all in one powerful moment.
Class, let's think about a very real situation you might face here on the Maasai plains. Imagine you're out herding cattle and you suddenly hear a strong calling—just like a voice from God calling Moses. What fears might pop up for you? Maybe you worry about leaving your family, or that the voice is too big for you. Think about the people around you—your parents, teachers, friends. How could they support you, just as Aaron stood by Moses? Take a moment to picture that support, then we'll share a few ideas together.
Class, we've reached the end of our lesson. This slide is our summary and closing prayer. First, remember that God can call us in the most unexpected places, just like He called Moses from the fields. Second, it's normal to make excuses, but God always provides the help we need to move forward. Finally, we can trust God's promises and feel His presence with us every day. Let's close with a short prayer. Dear God, give us the courage of Moses to follow You, even when we feel scared or unsure. Help us remember that You are always with us, ready to guide us. Amen. Great work today, everyone! Keep thinking about how God might be speaking to you right now.
Class, let's dive into our first worked example: Moses' Excuses – Worked Example 1. Notice the excuse Moses gives: "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?" This shows his fear and doubt. God answers, "I will be with you; I am the God of your ancestors." That promise gives Moses courage. Let's bring the story to life. Pair up and role‑play this dialogue—one of you as Moses, the other as God. Try to feel the nervousness and the reassuring answer.
Class, let's look at our next worked example: Moses' Excuses – Worked Example 2. Here we see the second excuse Moses gave: 'What if they do not believe me or listen?'
Everyone, let's look at our third worked example: Moses' Excuses – Worked Example 3. First, notice the excuse Moses gives: "I am not a good speaker." God answers by promising help—"Your brother Aaron will speak for you." Here Aaron steps in, saying, "Moses, I will speak for you. Trust God!" That shows how God provides a partner when we feel weak. Let's pause. Can anyone share a time when you felt you weren't good at something, but a friend helped you out? Great ideas! Just like Aaron, we can ask God‑given friends to speak for us. For today's activity, each group will write a short script where Aaron delivers a message for Moses. To recap, Moses' excuse was "I'm not a good speaker," God answered with Aaron's help, and we'll practice turning that promise into our own short dialogues.
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