A Forerunner of Mightier Works

A remarkable parallel to Moses and Miriam's songs is found in the book of Revelation, immediately preceding the seven last plagues. These seven afflictions are part of God's intervention to save mankind from total destruction, just as He delivered Israel in the days of Moses and Miriam.

A song is heard, praising God for His imminent victory over Satan, the god of this age (2 Corinthians 4:4). John records these awesome events: "And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying: 'Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are your ways ... Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You ..." (Revelation 15:3-4).

The mighty works that Moses and Miriam referred to after their deliverance through the Red Sea (Exodus 15) prefigure the much mightier works for which the redeemed will sing praises to Christ, the Lamb of God. Their words of praise and thanksgiving recall the joyous words sung by Moses and Miriam long ago.

This physical and spiritual circle is brought to completion. God can—and still does—deliver His people. These words of praise echo immediately before Jesus Christ dispatches the wicked of the earth (Revelation 15:1-7), delivering His people once again, leading them to the Promised Land of His great Kingdom.

We should learn a vital lesson in all of this: God has the ultimate control over what takes place in human history. As shown repeatedly throughout Israel's history, He brings good, but also allows evil, all in accordance with His purpose. We have the privilege to honor and praise Him once we understand His sovereignty or stand against Him and suffer the consequences as did the ancient Egyptians and as many will at the end of this age.

When human beings come to recognize God's sovereignty—and that, although He is supreme in power and authority He is deeply interested in our welfare—then we can enjoy an intimate relationship with Him.

Miriam, singing her response to Moses' song (Exodus 15:20-21), told of God's sovereignty, His triumph over evil. When evil is removed from humanity, peace will fill the void. These are major themes of the gospel taught by Jesus Christ and the apostles (Acts 3:17-26). GN

-- Jerold Aust