Exodus 8:20-9:12 – God’s People Spared
There were about 80 different false gods and goddesses in ancient Egypt, and each one had a specific role and function, but generally they can be placed into 3 groups. These gods and goddess controlled various aspects of – the Nile, the land, and the sky.
In the next set of 3 plagues we see God sending flies, death of livestock, and boils. The earth is being brought under the judgment of God.
God displays his power over Egyptian gods like Kepher (a flying beetle), Apis (a bull), and Imhotep (god of healing).
Pharaoh, and all Egypt, is to know that God is “the LORD in the midst of the earth”, verse 22. God, in his revelation, is giving an opportunity for the people of Israel to turn in repentance and faith. Although they will fail to take it.
God is also acting in the course of these events to show a distinction between Egypt and his own people in the land of Goshen (an area of Egypt). In verse 23 we are told that God is making a division between his people and the Egyptians.
Where the Egyptians have suffered water turning to blood, frogs filling their houses, annoyance of gnats, infestation of flies, death of livestock and horrible boils, God’s people have been kept free from these. There is no judgment for the people of God.
God alone has the power over life, livestock and sickness. It is God alone who works out his great and mighty deeds on the earth. It is God alone who keeps and protects his people.
There is a distinction between those who belong to Christ and the world. We will not face the eternal judgment of Christ if we turn in repentance and faith. We are protected because he has already taken the punishment for us.
Questions
- In what ways does God reveal he is in the midst of the earth? Where do we find the full revelation of God?
- Why do you think it was important that God was showing Egypt that there was distinction between them and God’s people?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that through Christ we escape the judgement of God.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.