The Israelites Witness the LORD's Power
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land is marked by numerous instances where they witnessed the power of the LORD. These events are pivotal in understanding the relationship between God and His chosen people, as well as His divine intervention in human history.

The Plagues of Egypt

The LORD's power is first dramatically displayed through the ten plagues inflicted upon Egypt, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. These plagues were a direct challenge to Pharaoh's hardened heart and the gods of Egypt. Each plague demonstrated the LORD's supremacy over creation and His commitment to liberating the Israelites. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, led to the institution of the Passover, a lasting ordinance for the Israelites. As Exodus 12:12-13 states, "For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night and strike down every firstborn male, both man and beast, and I will execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you."

The Parting of the Red Sea

One of the most iconic demonstrations of the LORD's power is the parting of the Red Sea. As the Israelites fled Egypt, they found themselves trapped between Pharaoh's advancing army and the sea. In this moment of desperation, the LORD instructed Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and the waters were divided, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This miraculous event is recorded in Exodus 14:21-22 : "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and on their left."

Provision in the Wilderness

Throughout their wilderness journey, the Israelites continued to witness the LORD's power through His provision. Despite their grumbling and lack of faith, God provided manna from heaven and quail for sustenance, as well as water from a rock. These acts of provision are recorded in Exodus 16 and 17. In Exodus 16:4 , the LORD declares, "Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people are to go out and gather enough for that day."

The Giving of the Law at Mount Sinai

At Mount Sinai, the Israelites experienced the LORD's power in a profound and awe-inspiring manner. The mountain was enveloped in smoke, and the sound of a trumpet grew louder and louder as the LORD descended upon it in fire. This theophany was accompanied by the giving of the Ten Commandments, establishing the covenant between God and His people. Exodus 19:18 describes the scene: "Mount Sinai was completely enveloped in smoke because the LORD had descended on it in fire. The smoke rose like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently."

Victories in Battle

As the Israelites journeyed towards the Promised Land, they encountered numerous hostile nations. The LORD's power was evident in the victories He granted them, often against overwhelming odds. One notable example is the battle against the Amalekites, where Moses, with the help of Aaron and Hur, held up his hands in prayer, resulting in Israel's victory (Exodus 17:11-13).

The Crossing of the Jordan River

Finally, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, the LORD once again demonstrated His power by parting the waters of the Jordan River. As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the river, the waters stopped flowing, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground. This event is recorded in Joshua 3:15-17 , highlighting the LORD's continued presence and power among His people.

These events, among others, underscore the LORD's mighty power and His faithfulness to the covenant with Israel. They serve as enduring testimonies of His ability to deliver, provide, and guide His people according to His divine will.
The Israelites' Reaction
Top of Page
Top of Page