Exodus 11:1

Then the LORD said to Moses, "I will bring upon Pharaoh and Egypt one more plague. After that, he will allow you to leave this place. And when he lets you go, he will drive you out completely.

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses
This phrase signifies a direct communication from God to Moses, emphasizing the intimate relationship between the divine and His chosen leader. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred tetragrammaton, which underscores God's eternal and unchanging nature. This divine name is a reminder of God's covenantal faithfulness to Israel. The phrase also highlights Moses as a prophet and mediator, chosen to lead the Israelites out of bondage, reflecting the trust and authority bestowed upon him by God.

I will bring one more plague
The term "plague" in Hebrew is "nega," which can mean a blow or a strike, indicating a divine intervention that is both punitive and revelatory. This final plague is the culmination of God's judgments against Egypt, each designed to demonstrate His supremacy over the Egyptian gods and Pharaoh's impotence. The phrase "one more" suggests a climactic event, a decisive act of liberation that will break the chains of oppression. It is a testament to God's patience and justice, as He has given Pharaoh multiple opportunities to repent and release the Israelites.

on Pharaoh and on Egypt
This phrase indicates that the plague is directed not only at Pharaoh, the stubborn ruler, but also at the entire nation of Egypt, which has been complicit in the enslavement of the Israelites. Historically, Egypt was a powerful empire, and its downfall through the plagues serves as a powerful narrative of divine justice. Theologically, it underscores the idea that sin and rebellion against God have communal consequences, affecting not just individuals but entire societies.

After that, he will let you go from here
The assurance "he will let you go" is a prophetic promise of deliverance. The Hebrew verb "shalach" (to send away) implies a release from bondage, a theme central to the Exodus narrative. This promise is a source of hope and encouragement for the Israelites, who have endured centuries of slavery. It also highlights God's sovereignty and foreknowledge, as He declares the outcome of events before they unfold.

and when he does, he will drive you out completely
The phrase "drive you out completely" uses the Hebrew verb "garash," which means to expel or cast out. This indicates not just a reluctant release but an urgent expulsion, as Pharaoh will be eager to rid Egypt of the Israelites after the final plague. This complete liberation is symbolic of the totality of God's salvation, freeing His people not only from physical bondage but also from spiritual oppression. It foreshadows the ultimate deliverance found in Christ, who frees believers from the bondage of sin. The phrase also reflects the fulfillment of God's promises, as the Israelites will leave Egypt with haste, marking the beginning of their journey to the Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is orchestrating the deliverance of His people from Egypt.

2. Moses
The chosen leader and prophet of Israel, who is receiving direct instructions from God to lead the Israelites out of bondage.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart has been hardened against letting the Israelites go, despite witnessing previous plagues.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, and the setting for the plagues that demonstrate God's power and judgment.

5. The Plague
The final and decisive act of judgment that God will bring upon Egypt, leading to the liberation of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
God's plan unfolds according to His perfect timing. The final plague is a reminder that God is in control and His purposes will be accomplished.

The Power of God's Word
When God speaks, His words are powerful and effective. Believers can trust in the promises and declarations of God, knowing they will come to pass.

Judgment and Deliverance
God's judgment on Egypt serves as a backdrop for the deliverance of His people. This dual theme is a reminder of God's justice and mercy.

Faith in Action
Moses' obedience to God's instructions exemplifies faith in action. Believers are called to trust and obey God's leading, even when the path is challenging.

The Cost of Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's resistance to God's commands resulted in severe consequences. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the final plague demonstrate God's sovereignty and power over the rulers of this world?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of God's promises in our own lives, similar to how He fulfilled His promise to deliver the Israelites?

3. How does the account of the plagues and the Exodus encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when we face opposition?

4. What lessons can we learn from Pharaoh's hardened heart, and how can we guard against similar attitudes in our spiritual walk?

5. How does the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt foreshadow the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, and how can this understanding impact our faith today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:19-20
God foretells that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand, which connects to the final plague as the ultimate act of compulsion.

Exodus 12:31-32
The fulfillment of God's promise as Pharaoh finally relents and drives the Israelites out of Egypt.

Romans 9:17-18
Paul references Pharaoh's hardened heart to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in showing His power and proclaiming His name throughout the earth.

Hebrews 11:27-29
Highlights Moses' faith in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, trusting in God's promises and power.