Psalms 135:8
“Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.”
Context:Psalm 135 is a hymn of praise to God, exalting His greatness, power, and mighty acts. It calls upon the people to worship and bless the Lord for His supremacy over all other gods. The verse in question, Psalm 135:8, specifically refers to one of the acts of God’s judgment on Egypt during the time of Moses, when He inflicted the tenth plague by smiting the firstborn of both humans and animals.
To fully understand the significance of Psalm 135:8, it is essential to revisit the historical context of the Exodus. God sent Moses to confront Pharaoh and deliver the Israelites from their slavery in Egypt. When Pharaoh refused to let the people go, God unleashed a series of ten plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and compel Pharaoh to release His people. The tenth and final plague was the most severe, resulting in the death of the firstborn in every Egyptian household, including both humans and animals.
1. Historical Background:
To fully understand the significance of Psalm 135:8, it is essential to revisit the historical context of the Exodus. God sent Moses to confront Pharaoh and deliver the Israelites from their slavery in Egypt. When Pharaoh refused to let the people go, God unleashed a series of ten plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and compel Pharaoh to release His people. The tenth and final plague was the most severe, resulting in the death of the firstborn in every Egyptian household, including both humans and animals.
2. God’s Judgment and Sovereignty:
Psalm 135:8 highlights God’s role as the righteous judge and the supreme authority over all creation. In the case of the tenth plague, God executed judgment upon Egypt for their oppression and refusal to release the Israelites. It demonstrates God’s sovereignty in bringing about justice and fulfilling His promises.
3. God’s Power over Life and Death:
By smiting the firstborn of Egypt, God displayed His power over life and death. The firstborn held a significant position in ancient societies, symbolizing inheritance, leadership, and future prosperity. By taking the lives of the firstborn, God demonstrated His authority to intervene in human affairs and bring about a decisive outcome.
4. Redemption and Salvation:
The judgment of the tenth plague also foreshadowed God’s plan for redemption and salvation. The Israelites were instructed to sacrifice a lamb and put its blood on their doorposts, which would serve as a sign for the angel of death to “pass over” their homes (Exodus 12:13). This event prefigures the sacrificial system and ultimately points to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who shed His blood for the forgiveness of sins and offers salvation to all who believe in Him.
5. God’s Faithfulness and Deliverance:
Throughout the Exodus narrative, God’s faithfulness and deliverance are evident. The plagues were not arbitrary acts of destruction but served as a means to liberate the Israelites and demonstrate God’s power. Psalm 135:8 reminds us of God’s commitment to His people and His ability to fulfill His promises, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
- – Recognise God’s sovereignty:Psalm 135:8 reminds us that God is the ultimate judge and has authority over all nations and rulers. We should submit to His righteous judgments and trust in His sovereignty.
- – Reflect on God’s power and faithfulness:The verse encourages us to reflect on the mighty acts of God throughout history. Meditate on His power over life and death and His faithfulness in delivering His people.
- – Seek redemption and salvation:The tenth plague points to the need for redemption and salvation. It reminds us of Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, whose blood cleanses us from sin and offers eternal life. Embrace His gift of salvation and share it with others.
