Exodus 4:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Almighty instructs Moses, "Go now, and I shall open your mouth and instruct you on what to say." This demonstrates that both the act of teaching and the opening of the mouth are attributed to the grace and readiness of God. He did not merely state, "Open your mouth, and I will instruct you," but instead He offered two assurances: "I will open and instruct you." In the Psalms, it is written, "Open your mouth, and I will fill it" (Psalm 80:11), illustrating humanity's readiness to receive what God provides to those who are prepared. Thus, the phrase "open your mouth" signifies the emergence of desire, while "I will fill them" indicates God's grace. Therefore, "I will open your mouth, and I will instruct you" emphasizes God's initiative in this divine relationship.

I will be present in your speech, not to enable you to articulate clearly, but so that remarkable deeds may arise from your words, even in a state of tongue-tied expression.

The Lord Himself spoke to the apostles, declaring, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22), affirming that He was the same One who instructed Moses, saying, “I will open your mouth and teach you what to say.” In this way, this divine Wisdom, which is beyond expression, pure, and untainted, bestows His grace upon the hearts of the faithful and enlightens their understanding so they can witness His glory.