Context
In Exodus 3:12 should be read within the flow of its chapter and the larger argument of In Exodus.
Common Interpretations
The Hebrew עָבַד (ʿabad, ah-VAHD) likewise means to work or serve. In Exodus 3:12, God says Israel will serve Him after deliverance; the BSB renders this occurrence “worship.” The English versions differ, but the Hebrew action remains service. If we read the verse as a promise of a worship service in our modern sense, we have brought an idea to the passage that its verb does not supply.
In the Old Testament, ʿabad can describe labor for a human master, service to God, or service to false gods. The object and context tell us what kind of service is in view. Exodus 3:12 speaks of Israel serving God after He brings them out of Egypt. Psalm 100:2 calls the people to serve the LORD with gladness.
The Greek latreuō is used in Matthew 4:10, Hebrews 9:14, and Philippians 3:3. The related noun latreia appears in Romans 12:1. These terms carry the idea of service offered to God; they do not, by themselves, mean singing or attending a Christian meeting. Acts 13:2 uses a different verb, λειτουργέω (leitourgeō, lay-toor-GEH-oh), when believers minister to the Lord while fasting. That passage does describe activity in a gathered setting, which is why the words and their settings must not be flattened into one category.
Current Position
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.