Exodus 10:14

The locusts swarmed across the land and settled over the entire territory of Egypt. Never before had there been so many locusts, and never again will there be.

Study Bible

The locusts swarmed across the land
This phrase describes a massive invasion of locusts, a common but devastating natural disaster in the ancient Near East. Locusts are known for their ability to consume vast amounts of vegetation, leading to famine and economic ruin. In the biblical context, this plague is the eighth of ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. The swarming of locusts symbolizes divine judgment and the power of God over creation, as seen in other scriptures like Joel 1:4 and Revelation 9:3.

and settled over the entire territory of Egypt.
The locusts covering the entire territory signifies the totality of the plague's impact, leaving no part of Egypt untouched. This emphasizes the severity of God's judgment and the inability of the Egyptians to escape His wrath. Geographically, Egypt was a fertile land, heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly along the Nile River. The locusts' settling over the entire land would have devastated crops and food supplies, highlighting the vulnerability of Egypt's economy and the futility of their gods in protecting them.

Never before had there been so many locusts,
This statement underscores the unprecedented nature of this plague. While locust swarms were not uncommon, the magnitude of this event was unparalleled, serving as a clear sign of divine intervention. The hyperbolic language is used to stress the uniqueness of this judgment, aligning with other biblical instances where God performs extraordinary acts to fulfill His purposes, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21).

and never again will there be.
This phrase indicates the singularity of this event in history, marking it as a unique act of God. It serves as a prophetic declaration, emphasizing that this particular judgment was a one-time occurrence, designed to demonstrate God's supremacy and to fulfill His covenant promises to Israel. The finality of this statement also points to the ultimate deliverance and redemption found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets, bringing a new covenant that surpasses the old (Hebrews 8:6).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against letting the Israelites go.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved and where the plagues, including the plague of locusts, took place.

4. Locusts
The eighth plague sent by God upon Egypt, representing His power and judgment.

5. God (Yahweh)
The sovereign Lord who demonstrates His power over creation and the false gods of Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The plague of locusts demonstrates God's absolute control over nature and His ability to use it to fulfill His purposes.

Judgment and Mercy
While the plagues were acts of judgment, they also served as opportunities for Pharaoh to repent, showing God's desire for repentance.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings is a cautionary tale about the dangers of a hardened heart.

God's Faithfulness
Despite the severity of the plagues, God remained faithful to His promise to deliver Israel, reminding us of His faithfulness to His promises.

The Power of Obedience
Moses' obedience in delivering God's message to Pharaoh is a model for us to follow God's commands, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of locusts in Exodus 10:14 demonstrate God's power over creation, and what does this teach us about His sovereignty in our lives today?

2. In what ways can the account of Pharaoh's hardened heart serve as a warning for us in our spiritual walk?

3. How can we see God's mercy in the midst of judgment in the account of the plagues, and how does this apply to our understanding of God's character?

4. What are some areas in our lives where we need to be more obedient to God's commands, as Moses was?

5. How can the promise of restoration in Joel 2:25 encourage us when we face loss or destruction in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2:25
This verse speaks of God restoring the years that the locusts have eaten, symbolizing God's power to redeem and restore what has been lost.

Revelation 9:3-4
Locusts are used symbolically in the end times, showing God's continued use of creation to execute judgment.

Psalm 105:34-35
This Psalm recounts the plagues of Egypt, including the locusts, as a testament to God's mighty acts.

Deuteronomy 28:38
Discusses locusts as a curse for disobedience, highlighting the consequences of turning away from God.