◄ Exodus 11 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Plague on the Firstborn Foretold 1Then the LORD said to Moses, “I will bring upon Pharaoh and Egypt one more plague. After that, he will allow you to leave this place. And when he lets you go, he will drive you out completely. 2Now announce to the people that men and women alike should ask their neighbors for articles of silver and gold.” 3And the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, Moses himself was highly regarded in Egypt by Pharaoh’s officials and by the people. 4So Moses declared, “This is what the LORD says: ‘About midnight I will go throughout Egypt, 5and every firstborn son in the land of Egypt will die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne, to the firstborn of the servant girl behind the hand mill, as well as the firstborn of all the cattle. 6Then a great cry will go out over all the land of Egypt. Such an outcry has never been heard before and will never be heard again. 7But among all the Israelites, not even a dog will snarl at man or beast.’a Then you will know that the LORD makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel. 8And all these officials of yours will come and bow before me, saying, ‘Go, you and all the people who follow you!’ After that, I will depart.” And hot with anger, Moses left Pharaoh’s presence. 9The LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh will not listen to you, so that My wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.” 10Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh, but the LORD hardenedb Pharaoh’s heart so that he would not let the Israelites go out of his land. Footnotes: 7 a Some translators close this quotation at the end of the verse. 10 b Or stiffened or strengthened Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 11 Summary The Plague on the Firstborn Foretold Verses 1–3 – The Final Plague Announced The LORD tells Moses there will be one last plague, after which Pharaoh will drive Israel out completely. Every Hebrew is to ask Egyptian neighbors for silver and gold, and God makes the Egyptians favor the Israelites so they freely give their valuables. This fulfills Genesis 15:14, where God promised His people would depart with great possessions. Verse 4 – Judgment at Midnight Moses declares, “Thus says the LORD: ‘About midnight I will go throughout Egypt’”. The exact timing highlights God’s total control. Verses 5–6 – Death of the Firstborn From Pharaoh’s firstborn to the firstborn of female servants and livestock, every firstborn in Egypt will die, causing “a great cry throughout all the land of Egypt, such as never has been nor ever will be again” (v. 6). Verse 7 – Israel’s Distinction “Not even a dog will bark at any of the Israelites,” showing a miraculous shield of peace for God’s people while judgment falls on Egypt. Verses 8–10 – Moses Departs in Anger Moses warns that Pharaoh’s officials will beg Israel to leave. He then exits “in hot anger.” Verse 10 reminds us the wonders were many, yet Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened by God, setting the stage for the climactic plague. In this emotionally charged chapter, God reveals His plan for the final plague to Moses - a devastating act that would lead to Egypt's firstborn sons' deaths. Even amidst the impending chaos, God ensures His people's protection and promises their liberation. The divine distinction between the Israelites and Egyptians underlines God's favor, preparing for a dramatic finale in the land of Egypt. Historical and Cultural Background Egypt viewed the firstborn as heir, priest, and guardian of family legacy. Striking them attacked the core of Egyptian identity and religion, revealing their gods’ impotence (Exodus 12:12). Pharaoh himself, seen as a living deity, would face personal loss, undermining his divine claim. The Plagues as a Structured Series The ten plagues form three cycles of three plus a climactic tenth. Each first plague in a cycle begins with Moses meeting Pharaoh by the Nile, the second in Pharaoh’s palace, the third without warning. The final plague stands apart: God Himself, not Moses’ staff, executes it (11:4). The Firstborn Principle • Exodus 4:22–23 – Israel is God’s “firstborn son,” so Egypt’s firstborn fall when Pharaoh refuses to release God’s. • Numbers 3:12–13 – God later claims Israel’s firstborn, substituting the Levites. • Colossians 1:15–18 – Jesus, the ultimate Firstborn, secures redemption for all who trust Him. Midnight Moments in Scripture Judges 16:3 – Samson’s escape, Acts 16:25–26 – prison doors fly open, Matthew 25:6 – the bridegroom’s arrival. Midnight symbolizes sudden deliverance or judgment. God’s Sovereignty and Pharaoh’s Heart Pharaoh alternately hardens his own heart (8:15) and is hardened by God (11:10). Romans 9:17 cites Pharaoh to show God’s right to display His power and mercy. Foreshadowing of Passover and Christ Exodus 12 provides the Passover lamb whose blood spares Israel. Hebrews 11:28 and 1 Corinthians 5:7 link that lamb to Christ, who takes judgment upon Himself for believers. Archaeological Notes • Papyrus Ipuwer describes societal collapse and death of children—possible echo of the plagues. • Tomb art shows special rites for firstborn sons, underscoring the blow Egypt suffered. • Semitic homes in Avaris (eastern Nile Delta) have yielded luxury items, supporting the text’s claim that Hebrews left with Egyptian treasure. Connections Elsewhere in Scripture Genesis 15:13–14 – Promise of deliverance with wealth. Psalm 105:36–38 – Poetic recap of the firstborn’s death and Israel’s exit. Numbers 33:3–4 – Pharaoh’s release tied directly to this plague. Revelation 18:4 – Call to “come out” of a doomed power echoes the Exodus. Literary Observations Exodus 11 is only ten verses yet brims with tension. No plague occurs in the chapter, but the inevitability is so vivid that the reader can almost hear the coming wail. Timeline and Dating 1 Kings 6:1 places the Exodus 480 years before Solomon’s temple (approx. 1446 BC). Amenhotep II fits a Pharaoh who would launch campaigns yet face unusual domestic upheaval. Key Words and Phrases “One more plague,” “about midnight,” “firstborn,” “not even a dog will bark”—each heightens urgency, precision, and the stark divide between Egypt and Israel. Contrast: Favor vs. Hardness The same LORD who hardens Pharaoh softens Egyptian hearts toward Israel (11:3), showing He can judge and bless simultaneously. Practical Implications • God’s timing can surprise but is never late. • Distinction matters; God sets His people apart. • Long-standing promises are certain; centuries cannot cancel divine vows. • Provision often flows from unlikely sources; Egypt’s valuables later fund the tabernacle. Connections to Additional Scriptures God's Sovereignty Romans 9:17-18 highlights God's sovereign choice and mercy, echoing His control over Pharaoh's heart. Distinction of God's People 1 Peter 2:9 speaks of believers as a chosen people, set apart to declare God's praises. Certainty of God's Word Isaiah 55:11 assures us that God's word will not return void but will accomplish His purposes. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Judgment Then the LORD said to Moses, 'I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here, and when he does, he will drive you out completely.' (Exodus 11:1) God's sovereignty is evident as He declares the final plague, demonstrating His ultimate authority over Pharaoh and Egypt. The Distinction Between Egypt and Israel But among all the Israelites, not even a dog will bark at any man or animal, so that you may know that the LORD makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel. (Exodus 11:7) God distinguishes His people from the Egyptians, highlighting His protective care and covenant relationship with Israel. The Certainty of God's Word Moses announced to Pharaoh, 'This is what the LORD says: About midnight I will go throughout Egypt, and every firstborn son in Egypt will die...' (Exodus 11:4-5) The certainty of God's word is emphasized as Moses delivers the message of the impending plague, underscoring the reliability of God's promises and warnings. Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, remember that God is in control and His plans will prevail, just as He orchestrated the deliverance of Israel. Recognize God's Protection Reflect on how God distinguishes and protects His people, and find assurance in His faithfulness to those who trust in Him. Heed God's Warnings Take seriously the warnings found in Scripture, understanding that God's judgments are real and His promises are sure. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure who speaks to Moses and declares the final plague. In Hebrew, the name used is "יהוה" (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. The LORD is depicted as the sovereign God who has power over life and death. 2. Moses The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who is instructed by the LORD to deliver the message of the final plague to Pharaoh. Moses is a key figure in the Exodus narrative, serving as the mediator between God and the people of Israel. 3. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt, who is the primary antagonist in the Exodus story. He is repeatedly confronted by Moses and refuses to let the Israelites go, leading to the series of plagues. 4. The Egyptians The people of Egypt who are subject to the plagues due to Pharaoh's hardened heart. They are mentioned collectively as those who will suffer the consequences of the final plague. 5. The Israelites The descendants of Jacob (Israel), who are enslaved in Egypt and are the recipients of God's promise of deliverance. They are distinguished from the Egyptians in that the final plague will not affect them. 6. The Firstborn This term refers to the firstborn sons of both humans and animals in Egypt, who are to be struck down in the final plague. The Hebrew term for firstborn is "בְּכוֹר" (bekhor), indicating the eldest offspring. Places Exodus 11 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places by name. The chapter primarily focuses on the final plague that God is about to bring upon Egypt and the instructions given to Moses. Therefore, there are no specific places listed in this chapter to create a numbered list from a conservative Christian perspective. The narrative is centered around the events leading to the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, but it does not detail specific locations within this chapter. Events 1. The LORD's Final Plague Announcement The chapter begins with the LORD telling Moses about the final plague that He will bring upon Pharaoh and Egypt. This plague will lead to the Israelites' release. The LORD says, "I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here, and when he does, he will drive you out completely" (Exodus 11:1). 2. Instructions for the Israelites God instructs Moses to tell the Israelites to ask their Egyptian neighbors for articles of silver and gold. This is a fulfillment of God's earlier promise to Abraham that his descendants would leave their place of bondage with great possessions (Exodus 11:2). 3. The LORD's Favor on the Israelites The text notes that the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, and Moses himself was highly regarded in Egypt by Pharaoh’s officials and the people (Exodus 11:3). 4. Moses' Warning to Pharaoh Moses delivers the LORD's message to Pharaoh, warning of the impending death of every firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh to the firstborn of the slave girl, and even the firstborn of the livestock. This is a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and Pharaoh's own divine status (Exodus 11:4-5). 5. A Great Cry in Egypt Moses foretells that there will be a great cry throughout Egypt, unlike anything before or after, due to the death of the firstborn (Exodus 11:6). 6. Protection for the Israelites The LORD promises that not even a dog will bark at the Israelites or their animals, signifying a clear distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, and demonstrating God's protection over His people (Exodus 11:7). 7. Pharaoh's Officials' Reaction Moses predicts that Pharaoh’s officials will come to him, bowing down and begging the Israelites to leave Egypt. This signifies the complete reversal of the power dynamic between the Egyptians and the Israelites (Exodus 11:8). 8. Moses Leaves in Anger After delivering the message, Moses leaves Pharaoh's presence in great anger, indicating the seriousness and finality of the situation (Exodus 11:8). 9. The LORD's Confirmation to Moses The chapter concludes with the LORD reiterating to Moses that Pharaoh will not listen, so that God's wonders may be multiplied in Egypt. This highlights the theme of divine sovereignty and purpose (Exodus 11:9-10). Lessons from Exodus 11 1. The Power of God's Word In Exodus 11, we see the undeniable power of God's word as He speaks through Moses to Pharaoh. God declares, "I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. After that, he will let you go from here" (Exodus 11:1). This reminds us that when God speaks, His words are not just promises but guarantees. Trusting in His word can transform our lives, as His plans are always fulfilled. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The chapter highlights God's control over the nations. Despite Pharaoh's hardened heart, God orchestrates events to demonstrate His sovereignty. "The LORD said to Moses, 'Pharaoh will not listen to you, so that My wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt'" (Exodus 11:9). This reassures us that no matter how chaotic the world seems, God is in control and His purposes will prevail. 3. The Importance of Obedience Moses' obedience to God's instructions is a key theme. He faithfully delivers God's message to Pharaoh, despite the danger. "Moses and Aaron performed all these wonders before Pharaoh" (Exodus 11:10). This teaches us the importance of obedience, even when the path is difficult, trusting that God will use our faithfulness for His glory. 4. The Consequences of Hardening One's Heart Pharaoh's repeated refusal to heed God's warnings leads to devastating consequences. "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he was unwilling to let them go" (Exodus 11:10). This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hardening our hearts against God's will, urging us to remain open and responsive to His guidance. 5. God's Justice and Mercy Exodus 11 reveals both God's justice and mercy. While He brings judgment upon Egypt, He also provides a way of escape for the Israelites. This duality reminds us that God is just, but He is also merciful, offering salvation to those who turn to Him. "The LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly" (Psalm 84:11). 6. The Role of Faith in Deliverance The Israelites' deliverance from Egypt required faith in God's promises. They had to trust that God would fulfill His word and lead them to freedom. This encourages us to have faith in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to deliver us from our own trials and tribulations. 7. The Significance of Community God's instructions to Moses were not just for him alone but for the entire community of Israel. This underscores the importance of community in our spiritual journey. Together, we can support and encourage one another in faith, as "iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17). 8. The Impact of Leadership Moses' leadership is pivotal in guiding the Israelites through this critical time. His courage and faithfulness inspire us to be leaders in our own spheres, influencing others positively and pointing them towards God's truth. "The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation" (Exodus 15:2). 9. The Assurance of God's Presence Throughout the chapter, God's presence is evident as He guides and protects His people. This assurance of His presence is a comfort to us, reminding us that we are never alone. "The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves" (Zephaniah 3:17). 10. The Promise of Redemption Finally, Exodus 11 foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites were delivered from slavery, we are offered freedom from sin through Christ's sacrifice. This chapter points us to the hope and salvation found in Him, as "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son" (Colossians 1:13). Topics 1. The Final Plague Announced In Exodus 11, God informs Moses of the final and most severe plague that He will bring upon Egypt. This plague is the death of the firstborn in every Egyptian household. The Hebrew term used for "plague" is נֶגַע (nega), which signifies a blow or affliction, emphasizing the severity of God's judgment. 2. God's Instructions to Moses God instructs Moses to speak to the Israelites, telling them to ask their Egyptian neighbors for articles of silver and gold. This act is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would leave their place of bondage with great possessions (Genesis 15:14). The Hebrew word for "ask" is שָׁאַל (sha'al), which can also mean to request or borrow, indicating a temporary transfer of wealth. 3. The Favor of the Israelites The text notes that the Israelites found favor in the eyes of the Egyptians, and Moses himself was highly regarded in Egypt. The Hebrew word for "favor" is חֵן (chen), which implies grace or goodwill, suggesting a divine influence on the Egyptians' hearts. 4. The Death of the Firstborn God declares that at midnight He will go throughout Egypt, and every firstborn son in the land will die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh to the firstborn of the slave girl. The term "firstborn" in Hebrew is בְּכוֹר (bekhor), highlighting the significance of the firstborn in ancient Near Eastern culture as the primary heir and symbol of a family's strength. 5. A Distinction Between Egypt and Israel God makes a clear distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, stating that not even a dog will bark at the Israelites or their animals. This distinction underscores God's protection and favor towards His chosen people. The Hebrew word for "distinction" is פְּלֵאָה (pele), which can also mean a wonder or miracle, emphasizing the miraculous nature of God's protection. 6. Pharaoh's Hardened Heart Despite the severity of the coming plague, God tells Moses that Pharaoh will not listen, as God has hardened his heart. The Hebrew word for "harden" is חָזַק (chazaq), meaning to strengthen or make firm, indicating a divine reinforcement of Pharaoh's obstinacy to fulfill God's purposes. Themes 1. Divine Judgment Exodus 11 highlights God's impending judgment on Egypt through the final plague. The chapter sets the stage for the death of the firstborn, demonstrating God's power and justice. The Hebrew word for "plague" (נֶגַע, nega) signifies a blow or affliction, emphasizing the severity of God's judgment. 2. God's Sovereignty The chapter underscores God's control over events and His ability to fulfill His promises. In Exodus 11:1, God declares, "I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt." This demonstrates His ultimate authority over Pharaoh and the Egyptian gods. 3. Distinction Between Israel and Egypt A key theme is the distinction God makes between the Israelites and the Egyptians. In Exodus 11:7, it states, "But among all the Israelites, not even a dog will bark at man or beast." This separation highlights God's protection and favor towards His chosen people. 4. Fulfillment of Prophecy The events in Exodus 11 fulfill God's earlier promises to Moses and the Israelites. The chapter shows the unfolding of God's plan as He prepares to deliver His people, as previously foretold in Exodus 3:20-22. 5. Human Resistance to Divine Will Pharaoh's continued resistance to God's commands is evident in this chapter. Despite the warnings and previous plagues, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, illustrating the theme of human obstinacy against divine will. 6. Preparation for Deliverance Exodus 11 serves as a prelude to the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. God instructs Moses to prepare the people for the upcoming exodus, emphasizing the need for readiness and obedience to God's instructions. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper understanding and trust in God's sovereignty and His plans for your life. Ask for God's protection and guidance, recognizing His care for His people. Seek a heart that is responsive to God's warnings and obedient to His word. Thank God for His faithfulness and the assurance of His promises. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Exodus 11) If this widespread death of firstborns truly occurred, why is there no independent Egyptian record or archeological evidence? 2. (Exodus 11) How could a just and loving God sanction the killing of innocent children for Pharaoh’s stubbornness? 3. (Exodus 11:2–3) Why would Egyptians willingly give their precious metals to the Israelites if they were supposedly in conflict? 4. (Exodus 11:9–10) If Pharaoh’s heart was divinely hardened, how is he personally culpable for resisting the requests to free the Israelites? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the announcement of the final plague demonstrate God's divine justice? 2. Discuss the significance of the LORD hardening Pharaoh's heart. What does this imply about God's sovereignty? 3. In what ways does God's distinction between the Israelites and Egyptians become evident in this chapter? 4. Why do you think God instructed the Israelites to ask their neighbors for articles of silver and gold? 5. Discuss the significance of the LORD's protection of Israel's firstborn in comparison to Egypt's loss. 6. How does Moses' anger reflect his commitment to God's commands and his empathy for the Israelites? 7. What is the role of Moses and Aaron in manifesting God's wonders before Pharaoh and his officials? 8. How can the promise of liberation from Egypt be seen as a metaphor for salvation? 9. What does this chapter teach us about God's ability to bring liberation amidst despair and chaos? 10. If faced with a similar situation today, how might we react to a decree such as the one announced by Moses? 11. How can this chapter deepen our understanding of God's providence? 12. How does the concept of favoritism apply in the context of God's favor towards the Israelites? 13. How can we apply the lessons learned about faith and obedience in this chapter to our lives today? 14. Discuss the implications of Pharaoh's persistent defiance against God's commands. 15. How does this chapter reveal the nature of God's miracles and wonders? 16. In the face of hardship, how can we learn to see God's protection and assurance as the Israelites did? 17. What does Moses' anger and departure tell us about standing up against unjust authority? 18. How does the narrative of this final plague help us understand the consequences of disobedience against God? 19. How does the Israelites' imminent liberation from Egypt reflect God's promise of deliverance to His people? 20. Discuss the influence of this chapter on our understanding of God's power and authority over nations and kings. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions