Jan. 26, 2021
The ten plagues in the book of Exodus serve the purpose of displaying the power and identity of the God who delivers the Israelites from Egypt. Each of the ten plagues corresponds to an area of life protected by the gods of Egypt. With every sign of judgment, the Lord demonstrates His power over the world’s mightiest nation.
Despite the havoc wreaked upon his land, Pharoah maintains a hardened heart. He refuses to listen to the warnings from prophets Moses and Aaron and chooses to turn his heart away from God.
Jesus begins the fourth of his five major discourses in the Gospel of Matthew. He instructs his disciples about how His kingdom community should relate to each other and the world at large.
He tells the parable of the lost sheep, using Old Testament imagery of the people of God as secure sheep (Psalm 23) and straying sheep (Psalm 119:176).
Jesus then gives instructions for the church, outlining a path of discipline and restoration for disciples who go astray.
“And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray.” - Matthew 18:13
Make It Personal
- Can you recall a time where you hardened your heart to the Lord and He pursued you anyway?
- Is there an area of temptation in your life that needs removing?
- As you pray, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of your life where you have wandered and ask the Lord to lead you back into His flock.