Exodus 12:12

French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is speaking and promises to pass through Egypt and strike all the firstborn, both people and animals. He also declares that He will judge the gods of Egypt and that He is the Lord, showing His power over all.

Explained for Children

Imagine if a king said he was going to go through a big playground and make all the first kids in line disappear. He also said he would show that he's stronger than all the other pretend kings. That's kind of what God is saying here, but in a real, serious way.

Historical Background

The Book of Exodus was likely written by Moses around 1446 BC, during the Exodus from Egypt. The audience was the Israelites who were about to be freed from slavery. This was a time when many cultures believed in multiple gods, and the event described here was meant to show the supremacy of the one true God.

Living It Out Today

Today, this can remind us to trust in God's sovereignty and power. Just as He protected the Israelites by marking their homes, we can seek His protection in our lives by following His commands and trusting in His promises.

Topics

God's powerjudgmentdeliverancefirstbornEgyptsupremacy

Related Verses

Exodus 12:29-30Numbers 33:4Psalm 78:51Romans 9:15Revelation 12:12

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did God strike the firstborn in Egypt?
God struck the firstborn to show His power and to fulfill His promise to free the Israelites. This act was a demonstration of God's authority over all, including the Egyptian gods.
What does it mean that God is the Lord?
When God says He is the Lord, He is declaring His supremacy and sole authority. It means He is the one true God, unlike the multiple gods the Egyptians believed in.
How did the Israelites know to mark their homes?
Moses had given instructions to the Israelites to mark their homes with lamb's blood, as a sign for God to pass over their houses during the plague of the firstborn.
What does this verse teach about God's justice?
This verse teaches that God is a just God who will hold accountable those who reject His authority. It also shows His justice in delivering His people from oppression.
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