In what ways should Exodus 11:5 influence our understanding of God's justice today? Setting the Scene: Exodus 11:5 “and every firstborn son in the land of Egypt will die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne to the firstborn of the slave girl behind the millstones, as well as every firstborn of the cattle.” Justice Without Partiality • Pharaoh’s palace and the slave girl’s hut alike felt the decree; God’s justice cuts through social status, wealth, and power. • Romans 2:11 reminds, “For there is no partiality with God.” The final plague underlines that truth graphically. • Today, we cannot presume immunity because of position, culture, or tradition; God weighs every heart equally. Justice With Patience and Warning • The tenth plague came only after nine clear, escalating signs (Exodus 7–10). God’s judgment is never hasty. • 2 Peter 3:9 affirms His patience, “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” • Modern application: continued rebellion after repeated warnings invites judgment; patience is not permission. Justice and Substitution • Exodus 12:13 explains that blood on the doorposts caused judgment to “pass over.” Justice stood, yet mercy was provided. • Foreshadowing Christ, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). • Today, we see justice satisfied at the cross—sin still earns death (Romans 6:23), but substitution offers life. Justice as a Moral Foundation • Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne.” • Exodus 11:5 reinforces that God’s rule is not arbitrary; divine authority rests on unwavering justice. • Social ethics, legal systems, and personal relationships should mirror this foundation: fairness, truth, accountability. Justice, Mercy, and the Fear of the Lord • Exodus 11:5 instills holy fear: God is not to be trifled with. • Romans 11:22 balances, “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God.” • Healthy reverence fuels gratitude for mercy and motivates righteous living. Walking in Light of Divine Justice ✓ Examine motives and actions regularly, knowing God sees all. ✓ Respond swiftly to conviction; delayed obedience courts discipline. ✓ Extend justice impartially—family, workplace, church, community. ✓ Proclaim the Substitute; justice cannot be ignored, but it can be satisfied in Christ. |
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