My Script notes for this Episode.
Introduction:
In our study of the book of Exodus, we have witnessed how the readiness of people to receive the message of truth varies. Some are easily receptive, while others require a different approach. The example of Pharaoh, who repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Lord, serves as a perfect illustration of dealing with stubborn unbelief. As we delve into the next set of plagues, we see how the Lord continues to confront Pharaoh in his unyielding stance.
The Fourth Plague: Flies:
In the morning, Moses and Aaron approach Pharaoh once again. They convey the Lord's message, demanding the release of the Israelites so they may serve God. However, Pharaoh remains obstinate. As a consequence, the land of Egypt is plagued by swarms of flies. These flies, biting and tormenting both people and animals, cause great distress and even death. The Lord, in His mercy, spares the land of Goshen, where the Israelites reside, from this plague. The separation between the afflicted Egyptians and the unharmed Israelites serves as a clear sign that this is the work of the Lord.
Pharaoh's Conditional Concession:
Overwhelmed by the severity of the plague, Pharaoh offers a partial concession. He allows the Israelites to sacrifice to their God but insists that it be done in the land. Moses, aware that such an act would be considered an abomination by the Egyptians and lead to violence, rejects this proposition. Instead, he reiterates the Lord's command to go on a three-day journey into the wilderness to worship and sacrifice. Pharaoh reluctantly agrees, but his heart remains hardened.
The Fifth Plague: Livestock Diseased:
The Lord instructs Moses to inform Pharaoh that a severe pestilence will strike the Egyptian livestock—cows, horses, donkeys, camels, oxen, and sheep. This plague not only affects the Egyptians economically but also strikes at the heart of their religious worship system. Cattle were considered sacred, and their death is a devastating blow to both their finances and their beliefs. In contrast, the livestock of the Israelites remains unharmed. Despite witnessing the fulfillment of this prophecy, Pharaoh continues to defy the Lord and refuses to let the people go.
Pharaoh's Unyielding Heart:
Pharaoh sends his own people to verify the condition of the Israelite livestock, demonstrating his skepticism. However, his investigation confirms that the Israelite livestock is unharmed. Yet, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, and he refuses to acknowledge the power of the Lord. His disbelief leads to the next plague.
The Sixth Plague: Boils:
Moses and Aaron take handfuls of ashes from a furnace and scatter them toward the heavens in Pharaoh's presence. This act causes boils to break out on the skin of the Egyptians, afflicting both humans and animals. The severity of the boils becomes unbearable for the magicians, who are unable to replicate or counteract this affliction. Even the magicians themselves suffer from these painful boils. Despite the escalating plagues and the clear demonstration of God's power, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, and he refuses to heed the warnings.
Conclusion:
In this episode of Moses Before Pharaoh, we have witnessed the continuation of the plagues, with Pharaoh's heart growing even more hardened. The Lord, through these miracles, seeks not only to deliver the Israelites but also to prove to Pharaoh and the Egyptians that He alone is the one true God. Yet, Pharaoh's unbelief persists, and the stage is set for the next set of plagues. As we continue to explore the book