Deuteronomy 26:8

Then the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror, signs, and wonders.

Study Bible

So the LORD
The phrase "the LORD" in Hebrew is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal existence and His covenantal faithfulness to His people. In the context of Deuteronomy, it emphasizes the personal relationship between God and Israel, underscoring His role as the divine deliverer. The use of "the LORD" here reminds us of God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the history of His people.

brought us out
The Hebrew verb "yatsa" is used here, meaning "to bring out" or "to lead forth." This action is central to the narrative of the Exodus, where God liberates the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It signifies not just a physical relocation but a spiritual and communal transformation. The deliverance from Egypt is a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's power to save and His commitment to His promises.

of Egypt
Egypt, in the biblical context, represents a place of bondage and oppression. Historically, Egypt was a powerful and advanced civilization, but for the Israelites, it was a land of slavery. The mention of Egypt serves as a reminder of the past hardships and the miraculous nature of their deliverance. It also serves as a metaphor for any form of spiritual bondage from which God can deliver His people.

with a mighty hand
The phrase "mighty hand" is a metaphor for God's power and strength. In Hebrew, "yad chazakah" conveys the idea of an overwhelming force. This expression is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's intervention in human affairs, particularly in acts of salvation and judgment. It reassures believers of God's ability to overcome any obstacle and fulfill His purposes.

and an outstretched arm
The "outstretched arm" symbolizes God's readiness to act and His willingness to reach out to His people. In Hebrew, "zeroa netuyah" suggests an image of God actively working on behalf of Israel. This phrase complements "mighty hand," emphasizing both the power and the personal involvement of God in the deliverance process. It is a vivid reminder of God's proactive love and care.

with great terror
The term "great terror" refers to the awe-inspiring and fearsome nature of God's acts during the Exodus. In Hebrew, "mora gadol" conveys the idea of divine acts that instill fear and reverence. This phrase highlights the seriousness of God's intervention and the respect it commands. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the appropriate response of reverence and obedience from His people.

with signs and wonders
"Signs and wonders" are miraculous events that demonstrate God's power and authority. In Hebrew, "otot u'moftim" refers to the plagues and miracles performed during the Exodus. These acts served as evidence of God's supremacy over the gods of Egypt and His ability to control nature. For believers, they are a testament to God's ongoing power to intervene in the world and in individual lives, affirming His presence and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and faithfulness by delivering His people.

2. Egypt
The land of bondage where the Israelites were enslaved for 400 years before God delivered them.

3. Moses
The leader chosen by God to bring the Israelites out of Egypt and guide them to the Promised Land.

4. Israelites
The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were enslaved in Egypt and later delivered by God.

5. Exodus
The event of God delivering the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, marked by miraculous signs and wonders.

Teaching Points

God's Deliverance
God is a deliverer who rescues His people from bondage. Just as He delivered Israel from Egypt, He delivers us from sin through Jesus Christ.

Power and Might of God
The "mighty hand and outstretched arm" symbolize God's unparalleled power. We can trust in His strength in our own lives, knowing He is capable of overcoming any obstacle.

Signs and Wonders
God's use of signs and wonders in the Exodus account demonstrates His sovereignty over creation. We should remain open to seeing God's hand at work in miraculous ways today.

Remembrance and Gratitude
The Israelites were called to remember their deliverance and express gratitude. We, too, should regularly reflect on and give thanks for God's work in our lives.

Faithfulness of God
God's actions in the Exodus reveal His faithfulness to His promises. We can rely on His promises in Scripture, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Exodus enhance our appreciation of God's deliverance in Deuteronomy 26:8?

2. In what ways can we see God's "mighty hand and outstretched arm" at work in our lives today?

3. How do the signs and wonders performed during the Exodus encourage us to trust in God's power and sovereignty?

4. What are some practical ways we can remember and express gratitude for God's deliverance in our own lives?

5. How does the faithfulness of God in delivering Israel from Egypt inspire us to trust in His promises found in other parts of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3-14
These chapters detail the calling of Moses, the plagues, and the eventual deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, providing the historical context for Deuteronomy 26:8.

Psalm 136
This psalm recounts God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the deliverance from Egypt, emphasizing His faithfulness.

Acts 7:36
Stephen's speech in the New Testament references the signs and wonders performed by God during the Exodus, connecting the Old Testament deliverance to the broader account of God's salvation plan.