What does Exodus 7:6 mean?

While these words are simple, they imply a remarkable level of trust. Moses and Aaron are being told to return (Exodus 7:1–5) to the Egyptian ruler who rudely rejected their first request (Exodus 5:1–9) with spite and retaliation (Exodus 5:19–21). As the following verse notes, these are not young men (Exodus 7:7). Yet they put themselves in danger by challenging an incredibly powerful ruler—because the Lord told them to do so (Exodus 7:2). Despite nothing going right for Israel so far, the two men will act according to faith.

The next several chapters are dramatic. Moses and Aaron announce the Lord's plagues on Egypt; sometimes, they are called on to physically trigger those catastrophes. Yet they are not the source of power—they are simply obeying God. This theme will continue after Israel is freed (Exodus 12:41) and needs guidance in the wilderness (Psalm 77:20).