How does Exodus 8:8 connect to God's deliverance promises in Exodus 3:7-10? Setting the Scene • Exodus 3:7-10—God tells Moses, “I have surely seen the affliction of My people… I have come down to deliver them… Now go; I am sending you to Pharaoh.” • Exodus 8:8—After the plague of frogs, Pharaoh pleads, “Entreat the LORD that He may remove the frogs… Then I will let the people go…” Pharaoh’s Cry Echoes God’s Promise • God predicted affliction (3:7); Pharaoh now feels that affliction himself (8:8). • God promised deliverance (3:8); Pharaoh asks for relief, unwittingly confirming God’s plan. • God sent Moses to confront Pharaoh (3:10); Pharaoh now appeals to that same mediator (8:8). Connection Points 1. Proof of Divine Initiative – The frogs plague shows the LORD, not Pharaoh, controls events. – Pharaoh’s request is forced acknowledgment of God’s supremacy, fulfilling 3:8. 2. Validation of Moses’ Call – God told Moses, “I am sending you” (3:10). – Pharaoh’s plea, “Entreat the LORD,” recognizes Moses as intermediary. 3. Escalation Toward Full Deliverance – Each plague intensifies until the final exodus, matching God’s stated goal “to bring them up out of that land” (3:8). – Pharaoh’s partial offer (“let the people go to sacrifice”) foreshadows the complete release God already declared. Scripture Threads • Genesis 15:13-14—God foretold oppression, then liberation; Exodus shows fulfillment. • Psalm 34:17—“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears…” parallels Israel’s cries and God’s response. • Romans 9:17—Paul cites Pharaoh: God raised him up “that My power might be displayed.” Takeaways for Today • God hears and acts on the affliction of His people, just as promised. • Opposition may temporarily resist but ultimately serves God’s redemptive plan. • God’s appointed mediator—first Moses, finally Christ (Hebrews 3:5-6)—secures deliverance that human power cannot thwart. |