Exodus: A Group StudySample

WEEK 5: A MIGHTY HAND AND AN OUTSTRETCHED ARM

After repeated warnings and multiple opportunities to repent, Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened against Yahweh’s commands. What began as a contest between Moses and Pharaoh quickly turned into a contest between Yahweh, the one true God, and the false gods of the Egyptians. The devastation wrought by the plagues was a demonstration of Yahweh’s supremacy and power over all the Egyptian gods. Beyond just weakening the Egyptians, the plagues proved to Israel that Yahweh is powerful, providential, and can be trusted to keep his promises.

What is this passage saying?

Yahweh sends the first plague on Egypt, turning the Nile to blood.

What is this passage teaching?

The Nile River was the most prominent geographic feature of ancient Egypt. The river supplied fresh drinking water, irrigation for crops, and fish for consumption. Egypt’s power and prominence in the world were tied directly to the flow of the Nile. When Aaron struck the Nile with his staff, turning it to blood, Yahweh was declaring that even this powerful Egyptian god was no match for him. It is no coincidence that the river once used to kill Israelite boys was then used to judge the Egyptians.

How do I respond?

As Israel witnessed the plagues, Yahweh was teaching them that the gods they may have adopted in Egypt were not gods at all. You may think it’s absurd to worship a god of the Nile, but if you are driven by the prominence of your degrees or job title, the amount of money in your bank account, or the affirmations you get from other people you are no better than the ancient Egyptians. The beauty of the plagues is that they expose our idols as much as the Egyptians. As you navigate this week, pray that God would expose your heart and the idols that have wrested control from the one true God. Take some time today to consider whether wealth, prestige, or power have overpowered the call of the gospel to humility, compassion, and generosity in your life.