How does Exodus 10:21 demonstrate God's power over creation and nature? Exodus 10:21 in Focus “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand toward heaven so that darkness will spread over the land of Egypt — a darkness that can be felt.’” (Exodus 10:21) A Darkness Only God Could Send • Instant, total, three–day blackout (vv. 22-23) in a land where the sun-god Ra was worshiped • No natural cause: Moses merely raises his hand; creation obeys its Maker • Darkness so thick it is “felt,” underscoring a supernatural act, not an eclipse or sandstorm • Israel still enjoyed light in Goshen (v. 23), proving selective, intelligent control Supremacy Over Egypt’s Nature-Deities • Ra (sun) and Horus (sky) silenced; Pharaoh’s gods rendered powerless • Isaiah 19:1 — “The idols of Egypt tremble before Him” fulfilled in real time • God exposes false security in created things, demanding exclusive worship Echoes of Genesis and Foreshadows of Redemption • Genesis 1:2-3 — God first commanded light; here He just as easily commands darkness • Psalm 104:19-20 — “He made the moon for seasons… You bring darkness, and it becomes night” • Matthew 27:45 — Darkness at the cross reminds us that the God of Exodus still rules sky and sun Lessons on God’s Power Over Creation • Spoken word alone directs nature; human instruments (Moses’ staff) serve merely as visible tokens • Creation is not autonomous; it remains under moment-by-moment authority (Psalm 135:6-7) • Miracles target hearts: Exodus 10:2 says these signs are “so that you may know that I am the LORD” Implications for Daily Life • If God governs light and darkness, He governs every detail of our environment and circumstance • Situations that feel “a darkness that can be felt” are still under His hand (Psalm 139:11-12) • Confidence grows when we remember that the One who stilled Egypt’s sun later stilled Galilee’s storm (Luke 8:24) Key Takeaways 1. Exodus 10:21 is no metaphor; it is a historical, physical act proving absolute sovereignty. 2. God’s authority extends over every element of creation, exposing all rival powers as impostors. 3. The same Lord who commanded this darkness offers light and salvation to those who trust Him (John 8:12). |
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