I found a mini-series about the life of Moses, and I thought I’d give it a try, even if it is on Netflix… If’n you want to give it a shot yourself, it’s called “Testament. The Story of Moses.”

Even though I wasn’t confident it’d be accurate, I’m always willing to give the benefit of the doubt.

It does seem at least historically accurate as far as the culture of the time, so that’s a good thing. The acting is also adequate. As the show moves forward, experts on the Bible, the Koran (I didn’t know it contained its own story about Moses), and ancient history share their opinions on particular scenes.

I made it to the burning bush scene and had to stop. They left out the best part (for me). It was when Moses argued with him about being unable to speak properly and that God had chosen the wrong man. God lost his temper and said, “Who has made man’s mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the LORD?” (Ex 4:11, ESV).

Why would I put so much emphasis on that one line and choose not to watch any more? Because that one sentence shows both Moses’ character and God’s character.

Moses was willing to argue with the creator of the universe to his face (sort of). That’s bold.

God, on the other hand, is telling Moses that since he created all, including Moses’ supposedly weakness of mouth, he doesn’t make mistakes. That perhaps a bit of respect—if not fear—is in order.

If our society has any spiritual issue, it’s the lack of fear of God. Even Christians fail at that one. I know I do. I don’t approach the throne of God with nearly as much reverence as I should. Sure, Jesus’ death tore the veil between us and the Father, thus eliminating our separation from him. That doesn’t mean we should no longer fear him, though, and at least figuratively remove our shoes when we stand on holy ground.

Perhaps I’ll continue watching later. Perhaps they’ll show God’s ultimate sovereignty and authority moving forward. I hope so, because otherwise I fear it’ll show God as weaker than he is, or make Moses stronger than he was.

Why? Because the whole point of God rescuing the Israelites out of Egypt and all the miracles he performed wasn’t about Moses or even the Israelites. It was about God’s glory and keeping the covenant he made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.