Exodus 12:29-51 – Deliverance and Judgment
“At midnight the LORD struck down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon.” These are terrifying words.
God’s judgment on Egypt shows just how serious sin is. Sin deserves death. And there is no distinction between the rich and poor. From the throne of Pharaoh to the lowest prison, all are guilty and all deserve death.
In chapter 4:22-23 God had told Pharaoh that Israel was his firstborn son, and that Pharaoh was to let his son go. If Pharaoh disobeyed then God will kill Pharaoh’s firstborn son.
God has kept his word. God has brought his judgment on a sinful, wicked people.
But this judgment has also brought about a great deliverance. God’s people have been set free, and set free with great blessing (verses 35-36!).
The LORD kept watch over his people and delivered them through judgment.
Through the judgment of the cross, God the Father has provided deliverance for all of his people. Not just deliverance, but we receive an abundance of blessing. In Jesus Christ we have every spiritual blessing; forgiveness of sin, love of God, adopted into his family, access to the Father, the fellowship of his people, eternal security, and the list could go on and on!
Our sin deserves the punishment of death and everlasting wrath, eternal separation from God. Yet, how wonderful, that God the Father sent God the Son to take the punishment that we deserve, so that we could be set free with an abundance of riches. The Father did not spare his own Son for us.
The terrifying coming judgment for all who are guilty holds no terror for those who are in Jesus Christ.
Where is your hope and confidence?
Questions
- Why do we not like to think, or talk, about the final judgment of God?
- What, or who, is our only hope and confidence?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.