Exodus 18:21

Hebrew Bible Modern 1977

ואתה תחזה מכל העם אנשי חיל יראי אלהים אנשי אמת שנאי בצע ושמת עלהם שרי אלפים שרי מאות שרי חמשים ושרי עשרת:

What Does This Mean?

Moses is told to choose wise and honest men from the people to be leaders over groups of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. These leaders should fear God and not be greedy.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're organizing a big game of tag at school. Moses says to pick kids who are good at following rules, honest, and not always wanting to win for themselves. These kids will be in charge of smaller groups to make sure everyone has fun and follows the rules.

Historical Background

Exodus was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BC. This verse is part of God's instructions to Moses on how to organize the Israelites effectively as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

Living It Out Today

In a modern workplace, a company might choose managers who are honest, respect authority, and aren't greedy for power or money. These managers would oversee smaller teams to ensure the company runs smoothly and achieves its goals.

Topics

• leadership
• integrity
• organization
• wisdom
• obedience
• community

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 1:13
• 1 Timothy 3:2-3
• 1 Corinthians 6:1-4
• Proverbs 29:4
• 1 Peter 5:2

Recommended Reading

Commentary Exodus Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Bible Modern Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of men should be chosen as leaders?

Leaders should be honest, fear God, and not be greedy. These qualities ensure they will lead with integrity and care for the people they oversee.

How does this relate to modern leadership?

In modern contexts, leaders who are honest, respect authority, and aren't greedy for power or resources are essential for effective management and creating a positive environment.

Why are different levels of leadership important?

Different levels of leadership ensure that responsibilities are distributed effectively and that every member of the group is properly represented and cared for within their smaller group.

How can this verse be applied in a church setting?

Church leaders should be chosen based on their honesty, respect for God, and lack of greed. This ensures they can effectively lead their congregation and keep the church organized and spiritually healthy.