Exodus 8:22

But on that day I will give special treatment to the land of Goshen, where My people live; no swarms of flies will be found there. In this way you will know that I, the LORD, am in the land.

Study Bible

But on that day
This phrase indicates a specific time set by God, emphasizing His control over the events. It highlights the precision of God's actions and His ability to intervene in human affairs at His chosen moment. This timing is part of the larger narrative of the plagues, which serve as a demonstration of God's power over Egypt and its gods.

I will give special treatment to the land of Goshen
Goshen was the region in Egypt where the Israelites lived. This area was likely located in the eastern part of the Nile Delta. The special treatment signifies God's protection and favor towards His people, setting them apart from the Egyptians. This distinction underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, reminiscent of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

where My people live
The phrase "My people" reflects the covenant identity of the Israelites as God's chosen nation. This relationship is central to the narrative of Exodus, as God is fulfilling His promise to deliver His people from bondage. It also foreshadows the New Testament concept of believers as God's people through faith in Christ.

no swarms of flies will be found there
The absence of flies in Goshen serves as a miraculous sign of God's power and protection. Flies, likely representing a specific type of pestilence, were a common nuisance in ancient Egypt, often associated with disease and decay. This divine intervention not only protected the Israelites but also demonstrated God's sovereignty over creation, contrasting with the impotence of Egyptian deities.

In this way you will know that I, the LORD, am in the land
This statement emphasizes God's presence and active involvement in the world. It serves as a declaration of His supremacy over the gods of Egypt and His authority over the land. The phrase "I, the LORD" is a reminder of God's covenant name, Yahweh, which signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. This assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, ultimately fulfilled in the incarnation of Jesus Christ, who is "God with us" (Emmanuel).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty over Egypt and its gods through the plagues.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who acts as God's messenger to Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, prompting God to send plagues.

4. The Israelites
God's chosen people, living in the land of Goshen, who are protected from the plagues affecting Egypt.

5. The Land of Goshen
A region in Egypt where the Israelites reside, set apart by God as a place of protection during the plagues.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
God demonstrates His supreme authority over creation and the false gods of Egypt by controlling the plagues.

Divine Protection and Separation
God sets apart His people, providing them with protection and distinguishing them from the Egyptians. This reflects His ongoing care and covenant relationship with His people.

Purpose of God's Actions
The plagues serve a dual purpose: to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites and to reveal God's power and presence to both the Egyptians and the Israelites.

Faith in God's Promises
Believers can trust in God's promises of protection and provision, as He is faithful to His word.

Witness to the World
God's actions in Egypt serve as a testimony to His power and presence, encouraging believers to live as witnesses to His work in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's protection of the Israelites in Goshen demonstrate His faithfulness to His covenant promises?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and power in our own lives, similar to His actions in Egypt?

3. How does the concept of being "set apart" as seen in Goshen apply to Christians today in their daily walk with God?

4. What are some modern-day "plagues" or challenges where we can seek God's protection and deliverance?

5. How can we be witnesses to God's power and presence in our communities, as the Israelites were in Egypt?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 45:10
Goshen is first mentioned as the place where Joseph's family settles in Egypt, highlighting its significance as a place of provision and protection.

Psalm 91:7-10
This passage speaks of God's protection over His people, similar to how He protected the Israelites in Goshen from the plagues.

John 17:15
Jesus prays for His followers to be protected from evil, paralleling God's protection of the Israelites in Goshen.