Exodus 7:17

This is what the LORD says: By this you will know that I am the LORD. Behold, with the staff in my hand I will strike the water of the Nile, and it will turn to blood.

Study Bible

This is what the LORD says
This phrase introduces a divine declaration, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, which signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. This introduction underscores that the following actions are not merely natural phenomena but are direct acts of God, revealing His power and purpose.

By this you will know that I am the LORD
The phrase highlights God's intention to reveal Himself to both the Egyptians and the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "know" is "yada," which implies an experiential understanding, not just intellectual acknowledgment. This act is meant to demonstrate God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods and affirm His covenant relationship with Israel. It is a call to recognize His unique identity and authority.

With the staff that is in my hand
The staff, a symbol of authority and power, is used by Moses as an instrument of God's will. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a staff often represented leadership and guidance. Here, it signifies God's chosen means to execute His judgment and deliverance. The staff in Moses' hand becomes a tangible representation of God's intervention in human history.

I will strike the water of the Nile
The Nile River was the lifeblood of Egypt, central to its economy, agriculture, and religion. Striking the Nile symbolizes a direct challenge to the Egyptian deities associated with the river, such as Hapi, the god of the Nile. This act demonstrates God's power over creation and His ability to disrupt the natural order to fulfill His purposes.

and it will be turned to blood
Turning the Nile's water into blood is a miraculous sign of judgment. Blood, in this context, represents death and impurity, contrasting with the life-giving properties of water. This transformation signifies the severity of God's judgment against Egypt's oppression and idolatry. It serves as a forewarning of the plagues to come and a call to repentance and recognition of the true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty over creation and the gods of Egypt.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He acts as God's spokesperson to Pharaoh.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against releasing the Israelites, setting the stage for God's miraculous signs.

4. The Nile River
A vital water source for Egypt, symbolizing life and prosperity. Its transformation into blood signifies God's judgment and power over Egyptian deities.

5. The Plague of Blood
The first of ten plagues, serving as a divine sign to Pharaoh and Egypt of God's supreme authority.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God demonstrates His ultimate authority over nature and false gods. Believers can trust in His power to intervene in their lives.

Judgment and Mercy
The plagues serve as both judgment on Egypt and a call to repentance. God's actions are just, and His mercy is available to those who turn to Him.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' obedience in delivering God's message to Pharaoh is a model for believers to faithfully carry out God's instructions, even in the face of opposition.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's hardened heart serves as a warning against resisting God's will. Believers should remain open and responsive to God's leading.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The plagues are part of God's fulfillment of His promise to deliver Israel. Believers can rely on God's faithfulness to His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transformation of the Nile into blood demonstrate God's power over the Egyptian gods and nature?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty in our own lives, and how should this influence our trust in Him?

3. How does Pharaoh's response to the plague of blood reflect the dangers of a hardened heart, and what steps can we take to ensure our hearts remain open to God?

4. How do the plagues in Exodus foreshadow the judgments described in Revelation, and what does this teach us about God's consistent character?

5. What can we learn from Moses' obedience in delivering God's message, and how can we apply this to our own call to share God's truth with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:1-2
The creation account highlights God's sovereignty over all creation, including water, which He now uses to demonstrate His power in Egypt.

Revelation 16:3-4
The plagues in Revelation echo the plagues of Egypt, showing God's continued judgment against sin and rebellion.

Psalm 78:44
This psalm recounts the plagues, emphasizing God's mighty acts in delivering His people and judging their oppressors.