BibleProject | One Story: Foundations of the BibleNäide

The simmering tension between God and Pharaoh finally boils over. God sends Moses and Aaron to confront the oppressive Egyptian king with a simple message: “Let my people go.” God reinforces his demand with powerful signs, such as turning Aaron’s staff into a snake—a clear hyperlink to the enemy in Eden. Here, God helps humans control the serpent. Moses’ power over the snake-staff reflects God’s power over snake-like Pharaoh.

The staff is just the beginning. Pharaoh’s refusal to free the Israelites triggers the full force of God’s liberating power. The narrative describes one divine plague after another with language that recalls the waters of the flood. Creation collapses as chaos surges over the earth. Once again, God enacts this cosmic de-creation after hearing the victims’ outcry.

This story also recalls the de-creation of Sodom and Gomorrah, as both stories include a human mediator between God and the people. Where Abraham interceded for Lot’s safety, Moses now intercedes to bring judgment upon Egypt.

With each wave of catastrophe that breaks over Egypt, God displays his incomparable power. But this power has a life-giving purpose. The biblical narrative describes each of God’s actions against Egypt as an ’ot—a sign that points to a larger reality, as we’ll see in the video. God’s signs invite both Israelites and Egyptians to acknowledge him as the true ruler of the universe. Pharaoh rejects this invitation and hardens his heart against God. How many more chances will God give the defiant Egyptian king?

Reflection questions:

• As you read through the story of the plagues (or signs), look for language that sounds familiar. What hyperlinks do you see to the creation story? Or the flood story?
• Why do you think that, in order to set Israel free, God does not give them stronger armies or better weapons to use in a fight for freedom? Instead, God does the fighting (with plagues) while he protects Israel, helping Moses to lead their escape. What does this say about God and his way of rescuing people?