What Did God Call Israel?
Understanding what God called Israel provides deep insight into the nation’s identity, purpose, and relationship with God. The titles and descriptions God used were not merely names; they were declarations of destiny, covenant, and divine intention. Throughout Scripture—especially in Exodus—God speaks of Israel in relational, royal, and priestly terms.
1. God Called Israel His “Firstborn Son”
Key reference: Exodus 4:22–23
When God sent Moses to Pharaoh, He instructed him to declare:
“Israel is My firstborn son.”
This title reveals several important truths:
a. A Special Status Among Nations
Calling Israel His “firstborn” signifies priority, honor, and inheritance. In ancient culture, the firstborn had leadership rights and received the largest blessing. God was declaring that Israel held a unique and chosen position among all nations.
b. A Covenant Relationship
“Son” expresses intimacy and belonging. Israel was not just a people God rescued; they were the family God claimed as His own. This deep relational identity set the foundation for the covenant at Sinai.
c. A Mission to Represent God
Like a firstborn son who leads the family, Israel was called to represent God’s character to the world—showing justice, holiness, and compassion.
2. God Called Israel “My People”
Key reference: Exodus 3:7, 3:10
Repeatedly, God says:
“I have surely seen the affliction of My people…”
“Bring My people out of Egypt.”
This reveals:
a. Ownership and Protection
God personally identifies with Israel. They are not Pharaoh’s slaves—they are God’s people, under His protection and guidance.
b. A Collective Identity
The phrase unites the tribes into one whole. They are not merely descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; they are the nation of God.
c. Covenant Fulfillment
Calling them “My people” reflects God’s promise to the patriarchs and His intention to bring them into His blessing.
3. God Called Israel a “Kingdom of Priests”
Key reference: Exodus 19:6
At Mount Sinai, before giving the Ten Commandments, God declared:
“You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests…”
a. A Nation with Ministry Responsibilities
This means that the entire nation—though having priests within it—was to function as a bridge between God and the world. Their role was to:
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Demonstrate God’s laws
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Reflect God’s holiness
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Lead other nations to know the true God
b. Authority and Service
A priest is both a servant and a representative. Israel was called to serve God and make Him known.
4. God Called Israel a “Holy Nation”
Key reference: Exodus 19:6
Along with being a kingdom of priests, Israel was called:
“…a holy nation.”
a. Set Apart for God
“Holy” means set apart, distinct from the world. Israel’s lifestyle, worship, ethics, and identity were to be different because they belonged to God alone.
b. Moral and Spiritual Purpose
Holiness wasn’t only about rituals; it was about reflecting God’s character. Israel’s obedience would shine as a light to surrounding nations.
5. God Called Israel His “Treasured Possession”
Key reference: Exodus 19:5
Before giving the covenant, God said:
“You shall be My treasured possession out of all the nations.”
a. A People of Great Value
The term means a precious, guarded treasure—something cherished above others.
b. Chosen by Grace
Not because they were powerful or numerous, but because of His love (Deut. 7:7–8). Their worth came from God’s choice.
c. A Privileged Relationship
Being God’s treasure meant they were recipients of His guidance, protection, and blessing.
6. God Called Israel His “Servant”
Broader biblical references: Isaiah 41:8; 44:21
Though emphasized later in Scripture, this title reflects a truth visible even in Exodus: Israel was chosen to serve God’s purposes.
a. A Mission of Obedience
Their calling involved loyalty, worship, and carrying out God’s will.
b. A Witness to the Nations
As God’s servant, Israel was to show His faithfulness to the world.
Conclusion: Israel’s Identity Shaped by God’s Words
God called Israel by many meaningful names, each revealing a dimension of their calling:
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“My firstborn son”—chosen, loved, and honored
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“My people”—owned and protected
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“A kingdom of priests”—ministers of God’s presence
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“A holy nation”—set apart in character and conduct
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“My treasured possession”—valued above all nations
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“My servant”—appointed for divine mission
Together, these titles form a rich portrait of Israel’s destiny. They were not just a group freed from slavery—they were a nation called, shaped, and commissioned by God to reflect His glory.
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