Exodus 10:2

and that you may tell your children and grandchildren how severely I dealt with the Egyptians when I performed miraculous signs among them, so that all of you may know that I am the LORD."

Study Bible

so that you may tell your son and grandson
This phrase emphasizes the importance of generational teaching and the transmission of faith. In Hebrew culture, the family was the primary unit for religious education. The Hebrew word for "tell" (נָגַד, nagad) implies a declaration or making known, suggesting that the recounting of God's mighty acts is not just a casual conversation but a deliberate and authoritative proclamation. This highlights the responsibility of each generation to pass down the knowledge of God's works and His covenant faithfulness, ensuring that the memory of His deeds remains alive and influential in shaping the faith and identity of future generations.

how severely I dealt with the Egyptians
The phrase underscores the intensity and seriousness of God's actions against Egypt. The Hebrew root for "severely" (הִתְעַלַּלְתִּי, hithallalti) can also mean to mock or to deal harshly, indicating that God's judgments were both punitive and demonstrative. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, as He intervenes in history to deliver His people and to judge those who oppose His will. The plagues were not random acts of destruction but were purposeful, revealing God's power and His commitment to His covenant with Israel.

and performed My signs among them
The "signs" (אוֹת, oth) refer to the miraculous plagues that God brought upon Egypt. In the biblical context, signs are not merely wonders to inspire awe but are divine acts that convey a message or truth about God. These signs were meant to demonstrate God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods and to affirm His identity as the one true God. They served as a testament to His power and as a means to authenticate Moses' leadership and God's deliverance of Israel. The signs were both a judgment against Egypt and a revelation to Israel of God's mighty hand.

and that you may know that I am the LORD
This phrase is central to the purpose of the plagues and the narrative of Exodus. The Hebrew word for "know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate, experiential knowledge, not just intellectual awareness. God's desire is for His people to recognize and understand His nature and character. The use of "I am the LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is a declaration of His covenant name, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. This knowledge is transformative, calling Israel to trust, worship, and obedience, and it serves as a foundation for their identity as God's chosen people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is the central human figure in the account of the Exodus.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who stubbornly refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that God sends upon Egypt.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and from which God is delivering them through a series of miraculous events.

4. Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Exodus 10:2 is set in the context of these plagues.

5. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as the children of Israel, who are enslaved in Egypt and are the recipients of God's promise of deliverance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Exodus 10:2 highlights the necessity of remembering and recounting God's mighty works. This serves as a foundation for faith and obedience in future generations.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The plagues demonstrate God's supreme power over creation and human rulers, reminding believers of His ultimate authority.

The Role of Testimony
Sharing personal and communal experiences of God's intervention is crucial for strengthening faith and encouraging others.

Intergenerational Faith Transmission
Parents and leaders are called to diligently teach the next generation about God's deeds, ensuring the continuity of faith.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's resistance serves as a warning against hardening one's heart to God's voice and commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Exodus 10:2 emphasize the importance of sharing God's works with future generations, and how can we apply this in our families today?

2. In what ways do the plagues in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our trust in God during difficult times?

3. How can we effectively share our testimonies of God's work in our lives with others, and what impact might this have on their faith?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that the knowledge of God's mighty acts is passed down to the next generation in our communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed God's power in your life. How can you use that experience to encourage someone who is struggling with doubt or unbelief?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:20-25
This passage emphasizes the importance of recounting God's mighty acts to future generations, similar to the purpose stated in Exodus 10:2.

Psalm 78:4-7
This psalm underscores the importance of teaching the next generation about God's deeds, reinforcing the theme of passing down the knowledge of God's works.

Romans 9:17
Paul references Pharaoh's role in demonstrating God's power, connecting the events of Exodus to the broader account of God's sovereignty.