How does Exodus 9:20 demonstrate the importance of fearing the Lord's warnings? The Setting: God’s Mercy in the Midst of Judgment • Egypt had already endured six devastating plagues, each one exposing the emptiness of its gods and the stubbornness of Pharaoh. • Before unleashing the seventh plague—hail mixed with fire—God graciously sent Moses to give a clear advance warning (Exodus 9:18-19). • The Lord’s warning was precise: any person or animal left in the open fields would die. From beginning to end, the episode showcases both God’s righteous judgment and His patient mercy. Key Verse: Exodus 9:20 “Those among Pharaoh’s officials who feared the word of the LORD hurried to bring their servants and livestock into shelters.” What Fearing the Lord’s Warnings Looks Like • Respect for God’s Word: These Egyptian officials accepted the Lord’s message as absolute truth. • Prompt Action: They “hurried,” treating the warning as urgent rather than theoretical. • Concern for Others: They sheltered both “servants and livestock,” proving that genuine fear of God overflows in practical care for those under one’s authority. • Public Stand: Taking cover under Yahweh’s word meant acting contrary to Egypt’s pagan culture—and possibly against Pharaoh’s expectations—yet they obeyed anyway. Why Fear of the Lord Is Essential • Preservation of Life. The officials’ livestock and households survived because they obeyed; those who ignored the warning lost everything in the fields (Exodus 9:21, 25). • Foundation of Wisdom. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). These Egyptians, though outsiders to Israel, displayed true wisdom the moment they trembled at God’s word. • Illustrates Saving Faith. Hebrews 11:7 notes that Noah, “when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.” Noah’s faith-fueled fear parallels the officials’ response, underscoring that believing God’s warnings is an expression of genuine faith. • Points to Future Salvation. Just as those officials found refuge by obeying God’s specific instructions, so ultimate safety is found only by heeding the gospel’s call to repent and believe in Christ (Acts 2:40). Lessons for Today • Warnings Are Acts of Grace. Each biblical warning, from Eden’s prohibition (Genesis 2:17) to Revelation’s trumpet judgments, is a merciful invitation to turn and live. • Fear Leads to Obedience. True reverence is never passive; it moves hearts and hands (James 2:17). • No One Is Exempt. Even pagan Egyptians could respond rightly to God’s word, showing that His warnings transcend nationality and background (Romans 2:11). • Delayed Response Is Dangerous. Waiting cost others their lives and belongings. Immediate obedience still matters whenever God speaks through Scripture. Putting the Truth into Practice • Receive every biblical warning as personal and authoritative. • Act swiftly on what God says, without bargaining or delay. • Let reverent fear guide daily decisions, valuing His word above cultural pressures. • Protect and bless those under your care, showing that godly fear produces tangible love. |
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