“And I will put a division between my people and thy people: tomorrow shall this sign be.”
Exodus 8:23 is a part of the narrative of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt to secure the release of the Israelites from their bondage. In this particular verse, Moses is speaking to Pharaoh on behalf of God, relaying a message about the impending plague of flies.
Here are some key points to consider in this Bible study:
- The division between God’s people and Pharaoh’s people: God declares that He will distinguish between His people, the Israelites, and the Egyptians. This division signifies God’s protection and favor upon His chosen people. Throughout the plagues, God consistently demonstrates His power and sovereignty, setting His people apart.
- The timing of the sign: Moses tells Pharaoh that “tomorrow shall this sign be.” This statement highlights God’s control over time and His ability to bring about events according to His divine plan. It also shows that God is giving Pharaoh another opportunity to recognize His authority and release the Israelites.
- The purpose of the sign: Each plague served a dual purpose. Firstly, they were demonstrations of God’s power over the false gods of Egypt, exposing the impotence of their idols. Secondly, they were divine judgments, meant to bring about repentance and ultimately deliverance for the Israelites. In this case, the plague of flies would serve as a sign to Pharaoh of God’s power and as a warning of the consequences if he continued to defy God’s command.
- Symbolism of the sign: Flies were considered unclean and associated with decay and filth. The plague of flies would have caused significant discomfort and inconvenience to the Egyptians, highlighting the contrast between God’s people and Pharaoh’s people. This symbolism reinforces the idea that God’s people are set apart and called to a higher standard.
In summary, Exodus 8:23 portrays God’s intervention in the conflict between Pharaoh and the Israelites. It emphasizes the division between God’s people and those who oppose Him, the timing of God’s signs, the purpose of the plagues, and the symbolic significance of the plague of flies. This verse highlights God’s power, sovereignty, and desire to deliver His people while holding those who oppose Him accountable for their actions.
