A Moses Model of Leadership

Alfred Hitchcock pioneered a filming technique called the "dolly zoom.” Focusing on character or object, this technique zooms in up-close while at the same time physically pulling the camera away. Exodus 33:7-12 feels like the Hitchcock effect. Exodus 33:7-11 zooms in on Moses, yet “all the people” and each man worshipping in his tent door (33:10) is drawn into the picture by backing out and showing where everyone is in relation to the tent of meeting. We do not hear the prayers of everyone who sought the name of the Lord (Ex 33:7); instead, Exodus 33:12-17 brings us inside, where we get to eavesdrop on one of many conversations Moses had with God.

Exodus 33:12-17 gives a look at how intercession is central to Moses’ leadership. We hear Moses talking to God saying something like, “I’m not feeling very confident. I’m feeling alone here. What assurances do I have? Oh, by the way, I am leading are Your people.” At first, these words sound like Moses is talking about himself and trying to point out a mistake or that God forgot something. When considering that Moses is asking for help in leading God’s people, one comes to realize that 1) God forgets nothing; 2) God makes and protects His promises, and 3) God does not have to explain everything upfront but waits until His servant is ready, then shows His servant the next step with His people in mind. Moses needed to get to the place where he had to confess he was in need to effectively lead God’s people. Only then could God provide, which in this case, was the promise of His presence.

Moses’ central concern is shown by the repeated petition that God’s presence goes with His people. While Moses asked for God’s grace (33:13) and it was given (33:17), God also parades His goodness before Moses, declaring His grace, mercy, compassion, longsuffering, goodness, truth and forgiveness for thousands (33:19, 6-7). Moses’ trajectory is prayer and worship that changes him so that he, in turn, can impact God’s people. Pastors and leaders, as lead worshippers, should pursue God’s presence and make that known to God’s people. God does not live in a cloud or outside a camp, but within—which is a very scary thought (33:20)—and a mind-blowing reminder of the kind of grace He gives.