The account of the removal of flies as a miracle performed through Moses and Aaron is found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in the narrative of the plagues that God brought upon Egypt. This event is part of a series of divine interventions aimed at compelling Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage.

Context and Background

The Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for several generations, and God appointed Moses and Aaron to lead them to freedom. Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he refused to let the Israelites go, prompting God to send a series of plagues upon Egypt. The plague of flies was the fourth in this sequence.

The Plague of Flies

In Exodus 8:20-24, God instructed Moses to confront Pharaoh early in the morning as he went to the water. Moses was to deliver God's command: "Let My people go, so that they may worship Me." If Pharaoh refused, God warned that He would send swarms of flies upon the Egyptians, their houses, and their land. The text emphasizes the distinction God made between His people and the Egyptians, as the land of Goshen, where the Israelites lived, would be spared from the flies.

The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event: "But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people live, so that no swarms of flies will be found there. Then you will know that I, the LORD, am in this land" (Exodus 8:22). This distinction served as a sign of God's power and His special covenant relationship with Israel.

The Removal of Flies

Pharaoh, overwhelmed by the severity of the plague, summoned Moses and Aaron and agreed to let the Israelites go to offer sacrifices to God, albeit with conditions. Moses interceded with God, and the Lord responded by removing the flies. Exodus 8:31 states, "And the LORD did as Moses requested, and He removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh and his officials and his people; not a fly remained."

Significance

The removal of the flies, like the other plagues, demonstrated God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to control the natural world. It also highlighted the power of intercessory prayer, as Moses' plea to God resulted in the cessation of the plague. This miracle reinforced the authority of Moses and Aaron as God's chosen leaders and messengers.

Furthermore, the event underscored the theme of divine judgment and mercy. While God judged the Egyptians for their oppression of His people, He also showed mercy by removing the plague when Pharaoh temporarily relented. This pattern of judgment followed by mercy is a recurring theme throughout the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the miracle of the flies' removal illustrates God's faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to deliver His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of hardening one's heart against His will. The distinction made between the Egyptians and the Israelites also foreshadows the concept of God's chosen people, a theme that carries through the entirety of Scripture.

In summary, the removal of the flies through the intercession of Moses and Aaron is a testament to God's power, His justice, and His mercy, as well as the pivotal role of His servants in executing His divine plan.Exodus 8:31
And the LORD did according to the word of Moses; and he removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people; there remained not one.
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Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
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part i
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