Let us open our Bibles to Exodus 11:1–12:30 as we explore the climactic moment in God’s deliverance of His people from Egypt: the tenth plague and the institution of the Passover. In this passage, we see both the righteous judgment of God and His incredible faithfulness in protecting His people.

The Climactic Judgment: The Death of the Firstborn

In Exodus 11, God declares the final and most devastating plague to Moses: “About midnight I will go out in the midst of Egypt, and every firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die” (Exodus 11:4–5). This plague is a direct challenge to Pharaoh, who considered himself a god and the protector of Egypt. By taking the life of the firstborn, including Pharaoh’s own son, God demonstrates His supreme authority over Egypt and its rulers.

This judgment was not arbitrary. Pharaoh’s stubbornness and refusal to release the Israelites had led to this moment. Time and again, Pharaoh had hardened his heart, rejecting God’s commands and warnings. Now, the final act of judgment would break Egypt’s defiance and secure Israel’s freedom.

The First Passover: God’s Faithfulness in Protection

Before the plague struck, God gave specific instructions to His people for their protection. In Exodus 12, God institutes the Passover, a ceremony that would mark Israel’s deliverance for generations to come.

1. The Lamb Without Blemish (Exodus 12:3–6):

• Each household was to select a lamb, perfect and without blemish, symbolizing purity.

• This lamb pointed forward to Jesus Christ, the perfect Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world (John 1:29).

2. The Blood on the Doorposts (Exodus 12:7, 12–13):

• The blood of the lamb was to be painted on the doorframes of each home. God promised, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you” (v. 13).

• This blood was not just a sign of protection but a declaration of faith in God’s promise.

3. The Unleavened Bread and Bitter Herbs (Exodus 12:8–11):

• The Israelites were to eat the lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, prepared for a swift departure. This meal symbolized both their suffering in Egypt and their readiness for deliverance.

That night, God struck down the firstborn of Egypt, from Pharaoh’s household to the lowliest slave. The wailing of Egypt was so great that Pharaoh finally relented, saying to Moses, “Up, go out from among my people, both you and the people of Israel” (Exodus 12:31).

Themes and Reflections

This passage teaches us about the justice and mercy of God. The tenth plague was a righteous judgment against Egypt’s oppression and idolatry, but it also reveals God’s mercy in providing a way of escape for His people. The Passover lamb and its blood were not just acts of ritual but signs of God’s faithfulness and His desire to save.

For us, the Passover foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites were saved by the blood of the lamb, we are redeemed by the blood of Christ. His sacrifice shields us from the judgment we deserve and secures our freedom from sin and death.

Application

Let us reflect on these questions:

• How does this story remind you of God’s faithfulness in your own life?

• Are there areas where you need to trust that God is working to fulfill His promises, even when His methods seem difficult or His timing feels delayed?

The first Passover teaches us that God’s deliverance often comes through both judgment and grace. He fulfilled His promises to Israel by leading them out of slavery, just as He fulfills His promises to us through Jesus Christ.

Closing Challenge

The Israelites were told to remember the Passover for generations, to teach their children about God’s mighty hand of deliverance. In the same way, we are called to remember Christ’s sacrifice and proclaim His salvation.

This week, take time to reflect on what Christ’s blood means for your life. How can you live in greater gratitude for His deliverance? And how can you share His salvation with others?

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for being a God of justice and mercy. Thank You for providing a way of deliverance through the blood of the Lamb, both for Israel and for us through Jesus Christ. Help us to trust in Your promises and live in gratitude for Your salvation. In Jesus’ name, amen.