And the next day the LORD did just that. All the livestock of the Egyptians died, but not one animal belonging to the Israelites died. And the next day the LORD did just that.This phrase highlights the immediacy and certainty of God's actions. In the context of the plagues, it underscores God's sovereignty and power over creation. The plagues were a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods, demonstrating that the God of Israel was the true God. This phrase also emphasizes the fulfillment of God's word, as He had previously warned Pharaoh through Moses about the impending plague on the livestock. 2Ki 7:1-2 Then Elisha said, “Hear the word of the LORD!… All the livestock of the Egyptians died, This part of the verse indicates the severity of the plague. The death of all Egyptian livestock would have had devastating economic and social impacts, as livestock were essential for agriculture, transportation, and religious sacrifices. This plague specifically targeted the Egyptians, further demonstrating God's ability to distinguish between His people and their oppressors. The death of the livestock can also be seen as a judgment against the Egyptian god Apis, who was depicted as a bull and symbolized fertility and strength. Psa 78:48-50 He abandoned their cattle to the hail and their livestock… but not one animal belonging to the Israelites died. This phrase highlights the divine protection over the Israelites, showcasing God's covenant faithfulness. It serves as a sign of distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, reinforcing the theme of God's chosen people. This protection is a precursor to the Passover, where God would again distinguish between the Israelites and Egyptians. The preservation of Israelite livestock also ensured that they had the necessary resources for their journey out of Egypt and for future sacrifices to God. This distinction is a type of Christ, who provides salvation and protection to those who belong to Him. Exo 12:13 The blood on the houses where you are staying… Persons / Places / Events 1. The LORD (Yahweh)The God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty over Egypt and its gods through the plagues. 2. Moses The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who acts as God's messenger to Pharaoh. 3. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go. 4. Egyptians The people of Egypt, who suffer the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart. 5. Israelites The descendants of Jacob, living in Egypt, who are protected by God during the plagues. Teaching Points God's SovereigntyGod demonstrates His supreme power over nature and the false gods of Egypt. This reminds us that God is in control of all circumstances. Divine Protection The distinction between the Egyptians and Israelites highlights God's protective care for His people. Believers can trust in God's protection and provision. Judgment and Mercy While God judges the Egyptians, He shows mercy to the Israelites. This duality is a reminder of God's justice and grace. Obedience and Faith The Israelites' faith in God's promises is rewarded with protection. Our obedience and faith in God can lead to His blessings in our lives. Hardened Hearts Pharaoh's hardened heart leads to destruction. We must guard against hardening our hearts to God's voice and commands. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the distinction between the Egyptians' and Israelites' livestock reflect God's covenant promises?2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty in our own lives, similar to how He demonstrated it in Egypt? 3. How can we apply the concept of divine protection in our daily walk with God? 4. What are some modern-day "plagues" or challenges where we can see God's judgment and mercy at work? 5. How can we ensure our hearts remain open and responsive to God's leading, unlike Pharaoh's hardened heart? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 12:3God's promise to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants and curse those who curse them is evident in the protection of the Israelites' livestock. Psalm 105:27-36 This passage recounts the plagues, including the death of livestock, as a demonstration of God's power and faithfulness to His covenant. Revelation 16:1-21 The plagues in Exodus foreshadow the end-time judgments, showing God's ultimate authority over creation and His justice. People Aaron, Egyptians, Israelites, Moses, PharaohPlaces Egypt, GoshenTopics Animal, Belonging, Cattle, Causing, Death, Die, Died, Egypt, Egyptians, Israelites, Livestock, Loss, Morrow, SonsDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 9:6 1653 numbers, 6-10 Library Confession of Sin --A Sermon with Seven TextsThe Hardened Sinner. PHARAOH--"I have sinned."--Exodus 9:27. I. The first case I shall bring before you is that of the HARDENED SINNER, who, when under terror, says, "I have sinned." And you will find the text in the book of Exodus, the 9th chap. and 27th verse: "And Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, I have sinned this time: the Lord is righteous, and I and my people are wicked." But why this confession from the lips of the haughty tyrant? He was not often wont to … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857 The God of the Old Testament is the God of the New The Plagues of Egypt Sign Seekers, and the Enthusiast Reproved. The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. The Sovereignty of God in Reprobation Man's Misery by the Fall Opposition to Messiah Ruinous Exposition of Chap. Iii. (ii. 28-32. ) Exodus Links Exodus 9:6 NIVExodus 9:6 NLT Exodus 9:6 ESV Exodus 9:6 NASB Exodus 9:6 KJV Exodus 9:6 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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