Exodus 8:29

"As soon as I leave you," Moses said, "I will pray to the LORD, so that tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart from Pharaoh and his officials and his people. But Pharaoh must not act deceitfully again by refusing to let the people go and sacrifice to the LORD."

Study Bible

As soon as I leave you,
Moses is speaking directly to Pharaoh, indicating the immediacy of his actions. This phrase highlights Moses' role as an intermediary between God and Pharaoh. It underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation, as Moses is ready to act promptly upon leaving Pharaoh's presence.

I will pray to the LORD,
Moses' commitment to pray signifies his reliance on God for intervention. This reflects the biblical theme of prayer as a means of communication with God and a demonstration of faith. Moses' prayers are often depicted as powerful and effective, showing his close relationship with God.

so that tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart from Pharaoh and his officials and his people.
The specificity of "tomorrow" indicates God's control over time and events. The swarms of flies are part of the plagues sent by God to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. This plague, like others, demonstrates God's power over nature and the gods of Egypt, as flies were associated with Egyptian deities. The mention of Pharaoh, his officials, and his people shows the widespread impact of the plagues on Egyptian society.

But Pharaoh must not act deceitfully again
This warning addresses Pharaoh's previous behavior, where he promised to let the Israelites go but reneged on his word. It highlights the theme of integrity and the consequences of deceit. Pharaoh's repeated hardening of heart is a central theme in Exodus, illustrating human resistance to God's will.

by refusing to let the people go and sacrifice to the LORD.
The demand for the Israelites to go and sacrifice is central to their identity and worship. Sacrifice is a key aspect of their covenant relationship with God. This request is not just about physical freedom but also about spiritual obedience and worship. The narrative foreshadows the eventual Exodus, where the Israelites will leave Egypt to serve and worship God freely.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He acts as an intermediary between God and Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues sent by God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty through the plagues to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where the plagues occur as a demonstration of God's power.

5. The Plague of Flies
One of the ten plagues sent by God to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites. This specific plague involves swarms of flies infesting Egypt.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercessory Prayer
Moses' willingness to pray for the removal of the flies demonstrates the importance and effectiveness of intercessory prayer. Believers are encouraged to pray for others, trusting in God's power to intervene.

The Consequences of Deceit
Pharaoh's deceitful behavior serves as a warning against dishonesty and the importance of integrity. Christians are called to be truthful and faithful in their commitments.

God's Sovereignty and Patience
The plagues reveal God's control over creation and His patience with Pharaoh. Believers can trust in God's timing and His ultimate plan, even when facing opposition.

Obedience to God's Commands
The repeated call for Pharaoh to let the Israelites go underscores the necessity of obedience to God's commands. Christians are reminded to heed God's instructions in their lives.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's hardened heart is a cautionary example of resisting God's will. Believers should remain open and responsive to God's guidance, avoiding spiritual stubbornness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role as an intercessor in Exodus 8:29 inspire you to pray for others in your life? Can you think of a situation where intercessory prayer made a difference?

2. In what ways does Pharaoh's deceitful behavior challenge you to examine your own integrity and honesty in your commitments?

3. How do the plagues, including the plague of flies, demonstrate God's sovereignty? How can this understanding impact your trust in God's control over your circumstances?

4. Reflect on a time when you struggled with obedience to God's commands. What lessons can you learn from Pharaoh's repeated refusal to obey?

5. How can you guard against a hardened heart in your spiritual journey, and what steps can you take to remain open to God's guidance? Consider connections to other scriptures that address the condition of the heart.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:16
This verse sets the stage for the plagues, where God commands Pharaoh to let His people go so they may worship Him, establishing the recurring theme of obedience to God's command.

Exodus 9:30
This verse highlights Pharaoh's continued hard-heartedness, despite witnessing God's power, similar to his deceitful behavior mentioned in Exodus 8:29.

James 5:16
This New Testament verse emphasizes the power of prayer, which is demonstrated by Moses' intercession for the removal of the flies.

Psalm 105:31
This Psalm recounts the plagues, including the flies, as part of God's mighty works in delivering Israel, reinforcing the historical and theological significance of these events.