The Threat of the Final Plague

Exodus 11

We have seen 9 different plagues hit the Egyptians. They have had their land ruined and people have died. Some of the plagues were announced in a warning and some happened without a warning. In all the different plagues Pharaoh could have let the Hebrews free but his heart was hardened. In this chapter we see the announcement of the final plague, the death of the first born. This was going to affect anyone who had a firstborn son, whether it was Pharaoh or if it was a slave girl.

God is specific

In verse 4 God tells Moses even at what time this plague will happen and that is at midnight. God specifically told Moses to tell the people listening at what time this would happen at because they would have a chance to not only think about it but take action in believing in the Lord. He was not going to surprise Pharaoh, he had plenty of warning, but Pharaoh did not want to listen. Also this plague was going to be worse than any of the ones before it. In verse 6 it says that a great cry would be throughout the land and there would be great sorrow. This plague did not only affect people but also cattle. If someone did not have a firstborn son, they might have a firstborn animal and that animal would die.

Moses has gained respect

In this passage we see that not only the people of Israel are giving their attention and respect to Moses but also the servants of Pharaoh. These people who worshiped false gods are seeing the truth that the God of Moses is real and the only God. They are actually listening to his warnings which means God is showing himself to these people. The sad thing is, Pharaoh’s heart is still hard, he views this final plague as a threat and does not listen. He had his warning but he did not take it and now their will be great heartache in the land.  It is interesting how people can change. The servants of Pharaoh looked at Moses as if he was crazy and nothing more than that, but now they realize they were wrong. Moses did not compromise on his character. He stayed faithful to the task that God had him to do. We are given a task as well, that is to be an example, a salt, and a light to this world (Matthew 5:13-16). It is easy for us to compromise that by not standing for who God is and the things of God. We can become quiet and not wanting to rock the boat. We can want to just fit in. When we make a stand people do say stuff and do mock a little. Look at any world leader, someone will always complain about them. We can not fear people complaining or making fun of us for standing for the Lord. You never know they may turn to believe in what you are making a stand for.