Moses and Jesus - Exodus and Departure

*Gospel Thoughts*

Transfiguration of Jesus

*Moses and Jesus - Exodus and Departure*

The connection between Moses and Jesus, and the words Exodus and Departure, especially in the context of the Transfiguration (Luke 9:31), is rich with theological meaning. 

It draws a deep parallel between the first Exodus led by Moses and the new Exodus accomplished by Jesus through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection.

*1) Luke 9:31 – “They spoke of His Exodus”*

“They appeared in glory and spoke of his departure [Greek: exodos], which he was about to accomplish in Jerusalem.” – Luke 9:31

The Greek word “exodos” literally means “exit” or “going out.”

It links Jesus’ mission with the Exodus of Israel from Egypt, led by Moses.

Just as Moses led God’s people out of slavery in Egypt, Jesus will lead humanity out of slavery to sin and death.

*2) Moses and the First Exodus*

“Let my people go…” – Exodus 5:1

Moses was chosen to deliver the Israelites from physical slavery under Pharaoh.

The Exodus was marked by:

The Passover lamb

The Red Sea crossing

The journey to the Promised Land

It was a foundational act of salvation in the Old Testament.

Moses’ exodus brought freedom from external bondage; Jesus’ exodus brings eternal liberation.

*3) Jesus and the New Exodus*

“Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” – John 1:29

Jesus is the new Moses, but greater (Hebrews 3:3).

His “Exodus” is the Paschal Mystery: His Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension.

Instead of crossing the Red Sea, Jesus passes through death.

Instead of the blood of lambs, it is His own Blood that redeems us.

Instead of the Promised Land of Canaan, Jesus opens the way to Heaven.

*4) The Passover Connection*

The Passover marked Israel’s escape from death in Egypt.

Jesus celebrates the New Passover at the Last Supper, offering His Body and Blood.

He is the Lamb, and His death brings about the ultimate deliverance.

“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” – 1 Corinthians 5:7

*5) Jesus as the New Moses*

Moses : Led people out of Egypt

Jesus : Leads humanity out of sin and death

Moses : Gave the Law on Mount Sinai

Jesus : Fulfills the Law in the Sermon on the Mount

Moses : Mediated the Old Covenant

Jesus : Mediates the New Covenant in His Blood

Moses : Lifted up the bronze serpent (Numbers 21:9)

Jesus:  Was lifted up on the Cross (John 3:14–15)

Moses :  Could not enter the Promised Land

Jesus:  Enters heaven and brings us with Him

Jesus is the true and better Moses—not just a deliverer, but the Savior of all.

*6) Why Discuss ‘Exodus’ at the Transfiguration?*

On the mountain of Transfiguration, Jesus stands between Moses and Elijah, speaking about His “exodus” in Jerusalem.

This highlights that:

Jesus’ suffering is not accidental, but part of God's plan.

His death is not a defeat, but a divine act of liberation.

The glory of the Transfiguration points to the glory that will come after the Cross—just like the first Exodus led to the Promised Land after trial and journey.

*7) Final Reflection*

Moses’ Exodus : From Egypt to Canaan

Jesus’ Exodus : From death to eternal life

Moses' Exodus : Freedom from slavery

Jesus' Exodus:  Freedom from sin

Moses Exodus : By the blood of lambs

Jesus Exodus :  By the blood of Christ

Moses Exodus had Earthly journey

Jesus Exodus had Heavenly destination

“For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” – John 1:17

*Closing Reflection:*

Just as God led His people through Moses, He now leads each of us through Jesus.

His "Exodus" is our path to freedom, healing, and resurrection