Hearts Hardened, Locusts Swarm: The Trials of Egypt

Despite the severity of God's plagues, Pharaoh's obstinacy prevails, demonstrating the blinding power of pride and disobedience. Yet, in the midst of trials, God's unyielding commitment to liberate His people shines brightly. He uses these hardships to reveal His power, showcasing that in the battle of human stubbornness and divine will, God's purpose always triumphs.

God's Command to Moses (Verses 1-2)

The LORD sends Moses to Pharaoh with a message and a warning of an impending locust plague, intending to showcase His power for generations to come.

Pharaoh's Stubbornness and the Arrival of Locusts (Verses 3-14)

Despite his officials' advice, Pharaoh refuses to let all the Israelites go, leading to the unleashing of a catastrophic plague of locusts that devour everything in sight.

Pharaoh's Temporary Repentance and Removal of Locusts (Verses 15-19)

Pharaoh momentarily admits his sin against the LORD, leading Moses to intercede on his behalf. The locusts are then driven away by a strong west wind.

Plague of Darkness and Pharaoh's Ultimatum (Verses 20-29)

A thick darkness engulfs Egypt for three days, while the Israelites remain in the light. Pharaoh agrees to let the people go but not their livestock. Moses insists that livestock are required for their worship. Pharaoh, enraged, warns Moses to stay away, threatening death if seen again.

The chapter unfolds amidst the trials of Egypt, as the LORD brings plagues upon the land. Despite witnessing the divine authority through the infliction of plagues, Pharaoh’s heart hardens, refusing to release the Israelites. God's message remains constant: "Let My people go, so that they may worship Me." His mighty hand showcases His unrivaled power, serving as an indelible testament to His people and the world.

1. Divine power and authority
2. Human obstinacy and stubbornness
3. Faith and obedience
4. Judgment and Mercy
5. God's faithfulness to His people1. The plagues in Egypt
2. Pharaoh's hardened heart
3. Consequences of disobedience
4. The call to let the Israelites go
5. Intercession and prayer1. The LORD
2. Moses
3. Aaron
4. Pharaoh
5. Egyptian officials
6. Israelites1. Egypt
2. Pharaoh's palace
3. Dwellings of the Israelites
4. Red Sea

1. How does God's power manifest throughout this chapter?

2. Discuss the implications of Pharaoh's hardened heart. How does this affect his decision-making?

3. What do the plagues signify in the context of God's relationship with Egypt and His people, Israel?

4. How does Moses demonstrate his faith and obedience to God in this chapter?

5. In what ways do the actions of the Egyptian officials differ from Pharaoh? What does this reveal about leadership and responsibility?

6. How does the locust plague reflect the spiritual condition of Egypt?

7. Why do you think the LORD allowed the Israelites to have light in their dwellings during the darkness plague?

8. Discuss the importance of the phrase "Let my people go, so that they may worship Me." What does this reveal about God's intentions?

9. How does Pharaoh's reaction to the plagues reflect the human tendency to resist God's will?

10. Why was it important for Moses to insist that the livestock also be allowed to go with the Israelites?

11. How do the plagues and Pharaoh's response to them enhance our understanding of sin's consequences?

12. Discuss the concept of repentance as demonstrated by Pharaoh. What can we learn from his interaction with Moses and Aaron?

13. How can Moses' role as an intercessor for the Egyptians inform our understanding of prayer and mediation?

14. How does the narrative of the plagues influence our understanding of God's justice and mercy?

15. In what ways does this chapter illuminate the struggle between human will and divine plan?

16. If faced with similar plagues today, how would our response be similar or different from Pharaoh's?

17. How might we see and respond to "hardened hearts" in our society today?

18. How can we apply the lessons from this chapter to our relationship with God?

19. How does God's dealings with the Egyptians influence our perspective on His character and commitment to His people?

20. In the light of this chapter, how can we better understand the importance of obedience and worship in our lives?