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Exodus 8

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‹ Chapter 7 Exodus — All Chapters Chapter 9 ›

1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and tell him that this is what the LORD says: ‘Let My people go, so that they may worship Me. 2 But if you refuse to let them go, I will plague your whole country with frogs. 3 The Nile will teem with frogs, and they will come into your palace and up to your bedroom and onto your bed, into the houses of your officials and your people, and into your ovens and kneading bowls. 4 The frogs will come up on you and your people and all your officials.’" 5 And the LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Stretch out your hand with your staff over the rivers and canals and ponds, and cause the frogs to come up onto the land of Egypt.’" 6 So Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt, and the frogs came up and covered the land of Egypt. 7 But the magicians did the same thing by their magic arts, and they also brought frogs up onto the land of Egypt. 8 Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Pray to the LORD to take the frogs away from me and my people. Then I will let your people go, that they may sacrifice to the LORD." 9 Moses said to Pharaoh, “You may have the honor over me. When shall I pray for you and your officials and your people that the frogs (except for those in the Nile) may be taken away from you and your houses?" 10 “Tomorrow,” Pharaoh answered. “May it be as you say,” Moses replied, “so that you may know that there is no one like the LORD our God. 11 The frogs will depart from you and your houses and your officials and your people; they will remain only in the Nile." 12 After Moses and Aaron had left Pharaoh, Moses cried out to the LORD for help with the frogs that He had brought against Pharaoh. 13 And the LORD did as Moses requested, and the frogs in the houses, the courtyards, and the fields died. 14 They were piled into countless heaps, and there was a terrible stench in the land. 15 When Pharaoh saw that there was relief, however, he hardened his heart and would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said. 16 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Stretch out your staff and strike the dust of the earth, that it may turn into swarms of gnats throughout the land of Egypt.’" 17 This they did, and when Aaron stretched out his hand with his staff and struck the dust of the earth, gnats came upon man and beast. All the dust of the earth turned into gnats throughout the land of Egypt. 18 The magicians tried to produce gnats using their magic arts, but they could not. And the gnats remained on man and beast. 19 “This is the finger of God,” the magicians said to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said. 20 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Get up early in the morning, and when Pharaoh goes out to the water, stand before him and tell him that this is what the LORD says: ‘Let My people go, so that they may worship Me. 21 But if you will not let My people go, I will send swarms of flies upon you and your officials and your people and your houses. The houses of the Egyptians and even the ground where they stand will be full of flies. 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. 23 I will make a distinction between My people and your people. This sign will take place tomorrow.’" 24 And the LORD did so. Thick swarms of flies poured into Pharaoh’s palace and into the houses of his officials. Throughout Egypt the land was ruined by swarms of flies. 25 Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God within this land." 26 But Moses replied, “It would not be right to do that, because the sacrifices we offer to the LORD our God would be detestable to the Egyptians. If we offer sacrifices that are detestable before the Egyptians, will they not stone us? 27 We must make a three-day journey into the wilderness and sacrifice to the LORD our God as He commands us." 28 Pharaoh answered, “I will let you go and sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness, but you must not go very far. Now pray for me." 29 “As soon as I leave you,” Moses said, “I will pray to the LORD, so that tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart from Pharaoh and his officials and his people. But Pharaoh must not act deceitfully again by refusing to let the people go and sacrifice to the LORD." 30 Then Moses left Pharaoh and prayed to the LORD, 31 and the LORD did as Moses requested. He removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh and his officials and his people; not one fly remained. 32 But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time as well, and he would not let the people go.

‹ Chapter 7 Exodus — All Chapters Chapter 9 ›

Study Notes — Exodus 8

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the second plague, where God turns the Nile River into blood, and then the third plague, where frogs infest the land. Pharaoh's magicians try to replicate these miracles but fail, acknowledging God's power. The fourth plague involves a swarm of insects or gnats that afflict both people and animals, but the Israelites in Goshen are spared. Throughout the chapter, God hardens Pharaoh's heart, and Pharaoh repeatedly refuses to let the Israelites go, leading to further plagues. Key verses include Exodus 8:1, where God instructs Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, and Exodus 8:20, where God sends the fourth plague. The chapter highlights God's patience, mercy, and power in the face of human rebellion.

Context for the Chapter

Exodus chapter 8 is part of the larger narrative of the Exodus, where God redeems the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. This chapter follows the first plague (water turned to blood) and precedes the fifth plague (death of livestock). It is situated within the biblical theme of God's redemption of His people, from the promise to Abraham to the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ. The chapter's events are pivotal in demonstrating God's power and mercy, setting the stage for the eventual departure of the Israelites from Egypt.

Heart Application

This chapter reminds us of God's sovereign power over all creation and His desire for our obedience and worship. It encourages us to reflect on our own hearts, considering whether we are hardening ourselves against God's will or surrendering to His mercy and redemption. As we read about the plagues, we are called to appreciate God's distinction between those who are His and those who are not, prompting us to examine our own relationship with God.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Exodus chapter 8 tells us about the plagues God sent to Egypt because Pharaoh would not let the Israelites go. God turned the Nile into blood, sent frogs, and then insects to afflict the Egyptians, but He spared the Israelites. This shows God's power and mercy. In Exodus 8:20, God tells Moses to ask Pharaoh again to let the Israelites go, demonstrating God's patience and desire for worship.

Voices from the Church

“The plagues upon Egypt were a display of God's almighty power, and a warning to all who would harden their hearts against Him. Let us learn from Pharaoh's mistake and soften our hearts to God's Word.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a mystery of God's providence, teaching us that our salvation is not of ourselves, but of the Lord, who softens hearts to receive His grace.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to the Second Plague (Exodus 8:1-15) — The chapter begins with God instructing Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, followed by the second plague of frogs, which Pharaoh's magicians cannot replicate.
  2. The Third Plague (Exodus 8:16-32) — The third plague involves a swarm of insects or gnats that afflict both people and animals, further demonstrating God's power and Pharaoh's hardened heart.
  3. The Fourth Plague (Exodus 8:20-32) — God sends a swarm of flies to Egypt, but spares the Israelites in Goshen, highlighting the distinction between God's people and those who rebel against Him.
  4. Pharaoh's Continued Rebellion — Despite the plagues, Pharaoh refuses to let the Israelites go, illustrating the depth of human rebellion against God's sovereignty.
  5. Conclusion: God's Sovereignty and Mercy — The chapter concludes with God's persistence in demanding the Israelites' freedom, showcasing His mercy towards them and His judgment on Egypt, emphasizing God's character as both powerful and merciful.

Core Doctrines

Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all creation, including the forces of nature and the hearts of kings. His power is evident in the plagues He sends upon Egypt.
Redemption
The sparing of the Israelites from the plagues symbolizes God's redemption of His people, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ.
Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's hardened heart illustrates the human capacity for rebellion against God, highlighting the need for divine mercy and redemption.
Mercy of God
God's distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians, sparing the former from the plagues, demonstrates His mercy and grace towards those who are His.

Lessons from Exodus 8

  1. God's Sovereignty Over Nature — The plagues demonstrate God's control over the natural world, teaching us to respect and worship Him as the Creator.
  2. The Importance of Obedience — Moses' obedience to God's instructions serves as a model for our own obedience to God's commands and will.
  3. The Danger of Hardening One's Heart — Pharaoh's example warns us against hardening our hearts to God's Word and will, encouraging us to remain soft and receptive to His grace.
  4. God's Mercy Towards His People — The sparing of the Israelites illustrates God's love and mercy for those who are His, reminding us of our own position in Christ as recipients of God's grace.
  5. The Universality of God's Judgment — The plagues upon Egypt remind us that God's judgment is universal, and all people will face His judgment, emphasizing the need for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Themes from Exodus 8

  1. Redemption — The chapter highlights God's desire to redeem His people, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ.
  2. Sovereignty — God's power over creation and the hearts of kings is a dominant theme, teaching us about God's control over all things.
  3. Mercy — The distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians demonstrates God's mercy towards those who are His, illustrating His gracious character.
  4. Rebellion — Pharaoh's hardened heart serves as a warning against rebelling against God, highlighting the consequences of such actions.
  5. Worship — The demand for the Israelites to be released to serve God emphasizes the importance of worship and obedience to God's commands.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart teach us about human nature and God's sovereignty?
  2. How do the plagues in Exodus chapter 8 reflect God's character as described in the rest of the Bible?
  3. What does the distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians teach us about God's mercy and redemption?
  4. In what ways can we apply the lessons of Pharaoh's rebellion and God's mercy to our own lives and relationship with God?
  5. How does the story of the Exodus, including the plagues, point forward to the redemption accomplished by Jesus Christ?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to the Second Plague (Exodus 8:1-4)

8:1 God instructs Moses to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, setting the stage for the second plague.
8:2 If Pharaoh refuses, God will send frogs upon him, his people, and his land, illustrating God's power over creation.

2. The Second Plague: Frogs (Exodus 8:5-15)

8:5 Moses cries out to God, and He sends frogs upon Egypt, fulfilling His word.
8:6 The frogs infest the land, including Pharaoh's palace, demonstrating God's power and Pharaoh's discomfort.

3. The Third Plague: Insects or Gnats (Exodus 8:16-24)

8:16 God instructs Moses to stretch out his staff, and a swarm of insects or gnats afflicts Egypt, further demonstrating God's power.
8:17 Pharaoh's magicians cannot replicate this miracle, acknowledging God's superiority over their magic.

4. The Fourth Plague: Flies (Exodus 8:20-32)

8:20 God sends a swarm of flies to Egypt, but spares the Israelites in Goshen, highlighting the distinction between God's people and those who rebel against Him.
8:21 Pharaoh offers to let the Israelites sacrifice to God in the land, but Moses insists they must go into the wilderness, illustrating the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the plagues in Exodus chapter 8?

The plagues were sent by God to demonstrate His power, to punish Pharaoh and the Egyptians for their rebellion, and to redeem the Israelites from slavery. As seen in Exodus 8:1, God's primary demand was for Pharaoh to let the Israelites go so they may serve Him.

Why did God harden Pharaoh's heart?

God hardened Pharaoh's heart as part of His sovereign plan to demonstrate His power and to fulfill His purposes. This is evident in Exodus 8:15, where it is written that Pharaoh's heart was hardened after the second plague.

What does the sparing of the Israelites teach us about God's character?

The sparing of the Israelites from the plagues teaches us about God's mercy, love, and distinction between those who are His and those who are not. In Exodus 8:22, God says He will make a distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians, demonstrating His care for His people.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Exodus 8:1 → Psalm 78:44 The turning of the Nile into blood is referenced in Psalm 78:44, reminding us of God's judgment on Egypt and His redemption of the Israelites.
2 Exodus 8:20 → John 1:1 The concept of God's sovereignty and power, as seen in Exodus 8:20, is foundational to understanding the nature of Jesus Christ as described in John 1:1.
3 Exodus 8:15 → Romans 9:17 The hardening of Pharaoh's heart, as mentioned in Exodus 8:15, is discussed in Romans 9:17, where Paul explains God's sovereignty in hardening hearts as part of His plan.
4 Exodus 8:22 → Hebrews 11:27 The distinction God makes between the Israelites and the Egyptians, as seen in Exodus 8:22, is remembered in Hebrews 11:27, where Moses' faith is highlighted as he saw Him who is invisible.
5 Exodus 8:1 → Revelation 16:1-21 The plagues in Exodus chapter 8 foreshadow the final judgments of God in Revelation 16:1-21, where God's wrath is poured out upon the earth in the form of seven bowls.
6 Exodus 8:20 → Matthew 24:22 The concept of God's mercy and distinction, as seen in Exodus 8:20, is relevant to understanding the elect in Matthew 24:22, where those who are God's are spared from the worst of God's judgment.
7 Exodus 8:15 → 2 Timothy 2:19 The hardening of Pharaoh's heart in Exodus 8:15 serves as a backdrop for understanding the foundation of God's elect in 2 Timothy 2:19, where it is written that the Lord knows those who are His.
8 Exodus 8:22 → 1 Peter 2:9 The distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians, as noted in Exodus 8:22, is analogous to the distinction between believers and the world, as described in 1 Peter 2:9, where believers are called a royal priesthood.
9 Exodus 8:1 → Isaiah 66:15-16 The plagues sent by God, as initiated in Exodus 8:1, are reminiscent of God's final judgment, as prophesied in Isaiah 66:15-16, where God comes with fire to judge all flesh.
10 Exodus 8:20 → Luke 17:26-30 The sparing of the Israelites, as seen in Exodus 8:20, foreshadows the day of the Son of Man, as described in Luke 17:26-30, where those who are God's will be taken to safety while judgment falls on the wicked.

Sermons on Exodus 8

SermonDescription
J. Vernon McGee (Exodus) Exodus 8:1-15 by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon, the preacher discusses the eighth plague that God brought upon the land of Egypt, which was the infestation of frogs. God commanded Moses to go to Pharaoh and deman
J. Vernon McGee (Exodus) Exodus 8:20-32 by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of making a choice between following the ways of the world or living according to God's word. He uses the analogy of two horse
J. Vernon McGee (Exodus) Exodus 8:16-19 by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon, Mr. Bidnail shares his experience in Egypt and connects it to the biblical account of the plague of lice. He describes how he witnessed the ground in Egypt crawling
C.H. Spurgeon The Resurrection Credible by C.H. Spurgeon In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the incomprehensible nature of the word of God and the difficulty in fully understanding it. He argues that there are no perfect analogies i
Brian Brodersen Exodus 5-8 by Brian Brodersen This sermon delves into the story of Moses and Aaron confronting Pharaoh in Egypt, showcasing God's power through various plagues directed at the Egyptian gods. Despite the miracul
Stephen Kaung The Tabernacle #1 - Outer Court by Stephen Kaung In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of purification and service in the believer's life. He explains that the water mentioned in 1 John 5 represents the life of Jesu
Stephen Kaung Service by Stephen Kaung In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of service and how it should be viewed as more than just religious work. Service is seen as imparting the life of Christ to o
Aldy Fam Fanous Mid South Conference 1981-04 the People of Israel by Aldy Fam Fanous In this sermon, the speaker discusses the journey of the children of Israel from Egypt to Canaan and how it relates to the Christian experience. The speaker emphasizes that those w
Jenny Daniel In the Potters Hands - Part 2 by Jenny Daniel In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about two boys and a tap to illustrate how we often try to take control of our own lives instead of letting God be the potter. The speake
Stephen Kaung Serving the Lord From Vision by Stephen Kaung This sermon emphasizes the importance of being saved to serve God's purpose, using the example of Moses who initially tried to serve God in his own way but failed. Through Moses' j

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 8

Matthew Henry's commentary on Exodus chapter 8 emphasizes God's sovereignty and mercy. He notes that the plagues were not merely acts of judgment but also served to glorify God and to demonstrate His power over all creation. Henry highlights the significance of the distinction God makes between the Israelites and the Egyptians, seeing in this a type of the difference between the church and the world. He encourages believers to learn from Pharaoh's hardness of heart, warning against the dangers of resisting God's will and the importance of softening one's heart to God's Word. Ultimately, Henry sees in the Exodus narrative, including the plagues, a foreshadowing of God's redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ, who delivers believers from the slavery of sin and brings them into the service of God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

Pattern of Rebellion

Notice how Pharaoh's heart is hardened after each plague, indicating a pattern of increasing rebellion against God. This pattern reflects the natural human tendency to resist God's sovereignty and mercy.

God's Mercy

Observe how God spares the Israelites from each plague, demonstrating His mercy and distinction between His people and those who rebel against Him. This distinction is a testament to God's gracious nature.

The Role of Moses

Moses acts as an intermediary between God and Pharaoh, delivering God's messages and witnessing the plagues. His role underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness in serving God.

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