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I. IT IS A GENERAL RULE OF THE DIVINE ADMINISTRATION THAT THE GOOD AND SAD SHALL ALIKE PARTICIPATE IN THE PAINFUL DISPENSATIONS OF THIS PROBATIONARY LIFE.

1. Because both are guilty of sin.

2. Because both need correction and improvement.

3. Because life is a probation and a discipline.

II. IT IS AN EXCEPTIONAL METHOD OF THE DIVINE ADMINISTRATION TO EXEMPT THE GOOD FROM THE TRIALS AND RETRIBUTIONS OF THIS LIFE. "And I will put a division between My people and thy people."

1. Thus we see that there are times in this life when moral character gives exemption from severe retribution. This is the honour God places upon true moral goodness. In this way He occasionally shows His approval of it. Piety shields the house. It will protect a nation from the plague of God.

2. Thus we see that there are times in this life when God manifests to men His care for the good.

3. Thus we see that there are times in this life when God gives men a prophecy of the social equity in the world to come. Then Egypt will be ever separate from Goshen in character, as in retribution and reward. Heaven will adjust the moral relations of the universe.Lessons:

1. That continued sin must be visited by continued retribution.

2. That the providence of God is over the good to save them from pain.

3. That the wicked must see the worth of goodness.

(J. S. Exell, M. A.)

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KJV: And the LORD said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh; lo, he cometh forth to the water; and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Let my people go, that they may serve me.

WEB: Yahweh said to Moses, "Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh; behold, he comes forth to the water; and tell him, 'This is what Yahweh says, "Let my people go, that they may serve me.