How does Exodus 11:5 demonstrate God's power and authority over life and death? Setting the Scene Exodus 11 opens with God announcing the tenth and final plague on Egypt. After Pharaoh’s repeated refusals, the Lord declares an act that none can resist: the death of every Egyptian firstborn. Exodus 11:5 states, “And every firstborn son in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne to the firstborn of the servant girl behind the millstones, as well as every firstborn of the cattle.” Power on Display • Absolute control: The LORD alone decides who lives and who dies (Deuteronomy 32:39). • Universal reach: From palace to prison, from people to livestock, no layer of society or creation lies outside His command. • Irresistible decree: Pharaoh, the most powerful ruler of the era, is helpless before God’s word (Psalm 33:8-11). • Perfect timing: The plague strikes “about midnight” (Exodus 11:4), emphasizing that even the clock submits to Him. Authority over Life and Death Across Scripture • “The LORD brings death and gives life” (1 Samuel 2:6). • “The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away” (Job 1:21). • Jesus declares, “I hold the keys of Death and of Hades” (Revelation 1:18). Together with Exodus 11:5, these passages form a seamless testimony: God’s sovereignty over life is constant from Genesis to Revelation. What Exodus 11:5 Teaches About God’s Character 1. Sovereign Judge: Sin invites judgment; God’s verdict is final. 2. Impartial Ruler: Status, wealth, or social class cannot shield anyone from His decree. 3. Faithful Redeemer: The same God who brings judgment also provides salvation through the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:12-13), foreshadowing Christ, “our Passover lamb” (1 Corinthians 5:7). 4. Covenant Keeper: He fulfills promises to His people, rescuing Israel exactly as foretold (Genesis 15:13-14). Living in Light of His Authority • Cultivate reverent fear: Recognize that every breath is granted by God (Acts 17:25). • Trust His justice: Wrong will not prevail forever; He will settle all accounts (Romans 12:19). • Receive His mercy: Those under the Lamb’s blood are spared; today salvation is found in Christ (John 5:24). • Walk in humility: Knowing God controls life and death reshapes pride into dependence (James 4:13-15). Conclusion Exodus 11:5 is far more than an ancient announcement; it is a vivid reminder that the Author of life holds absolute power over every heartbeat. His authority is both a warning to the proud and a refuge for the humble who take shelter under His provision. |
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