Exodus 11:4

So Moses declared, "This is what the LORD says: 'About midnight I will go throughout Egypt,

Study Bible

So Moses declared
This phrase indicates the role of Moses as a prophet and leader, chosen by God to communicate His will to the people. The Hebrew root for "declared" is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say or speak. This highlights the authority and responsibility Moses carries as God's spokesperson. Historically, Moses' declarations were pivotal in guiding the Israelites and confronting Pharaoh, emphasizing the power of divine communication through chosen individuals.

This is what the LORD says
The phrase underscores the divine origin of the message. "LORD" in Hebrew is "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenantal faithfulness. The use of "says" (Hebrew "אָמַר" - amar) again emphasizes the direct communication from God, reinforcing the authority and certainty of the message. In the biblical narrative, this phrase is a common prophetic formula, ensuring that the audience understands the message is not of human origin but divine.

About midnight
The specific timing, "about midnight," is significant. In ancient cultures, midnight was often seen as a time of deep darkness and vulnerability, symbolizing a moment of divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "midnight" is "חֲצוֹת הַלַּיְלָה" (chatzot halaylah), which literally means the division of the night. This timing underscores the sudden and unexpected nature of God's actions, serving as a reminder of His sovereignty over time and events.

I will go throughout Egypt
This phrase indicates God's direct involvement in the forthcoming judgment. The Hebrew verb "אָבוֹא" (avo) means "I will go" or "I will come," suggesting a personal and active presence. The mention of "Egypt" (Hebrew "מִצְרַיִם" - Mitzrayim) is significant as it represents the land of oppression for the Israelites. God's movement throughout Egypt signifies His power to execute judgment and deliver His people, fulfilling His promises. This action is a pivotal moment in the Exodus narrative, demonstrating God's supremacy over earthly powers and His commitment to His covenant people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He serves as the mediator between God and Pharaoh.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His promises. He is the one executing judgment on Egypt.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved. It represents a place of oppression and idolatry, soon to experience God's judgment.

4. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against letting the Israelites go, despite witnessing God's power through the plagues.

5. The Plague of the Firstborn
The final and most severe of the ten plagues, where God declares He will strike down the firstborn in Egypt, leading to the eventual release of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
God is sovereign over all nations and rulers. His judgments are just and purposeful, serving to fulfill His divine plan.

The Importance of Obedience
Moses' role as a faithful messenger underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when facing opposition.

The Power of God's Word
When God speaks, His words carry authority and power. Believers are called to trust in His promises and warnings.

Deliverance Through Judgment
God's deliverance often comes through judgment. The Israelites' liberation from Egypt foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Christ.

Faith in Action
Moses' declaration of God's word required faith. Believers are encouraged to act in faith, trusting in God's timing and methods.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the announcement of the final plague demonstrate God's sovereignty over Egypt and its gods?

2. In what ways does Moses' role as a mediator between God and Pharaoh parallel the role of Christ as our mediator?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Moses' actions to our own lives today?

4. What does the plague of the firstborn teach us about the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance?

5. How does the concept of deliverance through judgment in Exodus relate to the New Testament understanding of salvation through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Details the fulfillment of the plague of the firstborn and the institution of the Passover, which becomes a pivotal moment in Israel's history.

Hebrews 11:28
Highlights Moses' faith in instituting the Passover, showing the connection between faith and obedience to God's commands.

1 Samuel 2:6
Reflects on God's sovereignty over life and death, similar to His actions in the plague of the firstborn.

Revelation 16:1
Describes the pouring out of God's wrath in the end times, drawing a parallel to the plagues in Egypt as a demonstration of divine judgment.