In this section, God begins to deliver Israel by showcasing his sovereignty over Egypt through the plagues. By repeatedly hardening Pharaoh’s heart, God creates an environment in which his gracious salvation of Israel may be fully acknowledged. Ultimately, these chapters depict a power contest between the Lord (represented by Moses and Aaron) and the gods of Egypt (represented by Pharaoh). Although Pharaoh resists and disobeys the divine word, God will eventually overpower him until he submits and releases the people.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Exodus 7:14–25 records the first plague, in which the Nile is turned to blood. Here God tells Moses to stand “on the bank of the Nile” and to take with him “the staff that turned into a serpent” (v. 15). Recalling previous passages, what is the combined significance of Moses confronting Pharaoh by the Nile (see 2:10) and taking this particular staff with him (see 7:8–13)?
According to Exodus 9:14–16, why did God bring these plagues against the Egyptians? In light of this, what is the ultimate goal of God’s judgment of his enemies?
FEELING: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
Several times throughout the plagues, Pharaoh attempts to bargain with Moses and dictate the terms of his obedience. He offers to allow Israel to sacrifice within the land of Egypt (Ex. 8:25), to allow them to sacrifice but “not go very far away” (8:28), for only the men to go (10:11), and for the people to go without their flocks and herds (10:24). All of these bargains are rejected. What are some ways that we attempt to “bargain” with God when it comes to our obedience? Why is this foolish?
How does this section of Exodus lead you to love and worship Christ in awe at all his death took from you and achieved for you?
DOING: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
Although this section is primarily concerned with God’s judgments against Pharaoh and Egypt, on several occasions Moses intercedes with God on behalf of Pharaoh (Ex. 8:12, 29; 9:33; 10:18). Why might these intercessions be recorded throughout this section? What do they contribute to this narrative filled with judgment?
Pharaoh is a case study in sin’s deceit. Do you recognize the same deceit working in your life in some way? Do you need to get help, and what steps will you take to get it?
Questions adapted from Knowing the Bible: Exodus (Crossway Publishers) & Exodus for You (Tim Chester)
