The phrase "The Finger of God" is a metaphorical expression found in the Bible, symbolizing the direct and powerful intervention of God in the world. This expression is used in various contexts, each highlighting a different aspect of God's authority, power, and presence.

Old Testament References

1. Exodus 8:19: The first mention of "The Finger of God" occurs during the plagues of Egypt. When the magicians of Pharaoh were unable to replicate the plague of gnats, they acknowledged, "This is the finger of God." . This acknowledgment by the magicians signifies the undeniable power of God, surpassing human and demonic capabilities.

2. Exodus 31:18: The phrase is also used in the context of the giving of the Law. "When He had finished speaking with him on Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God." . Here, the "finger of God" signifies divine authorship and authority of the Law, emphasizing its sacred and unchangeable nature.

3. Deuteronomy 9:10: This passage reiterates the divine origin of the Ten Commandments: "And the LORD gave me the two tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God, and on them were all the words that the LORD had spoken to you on the mountain out of the fire on the day of the assembly." . The repetition underscores the importance of the Law as a direct communication from God to His people.

New Testament Reference

1. Luke 11:20: In the New Testament, Jesus uses the phrase to describe His authority over demons: "But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." . Here, the "finger of God" is a testament to the divine power and authority of Jesus, affirming His messianic identity and the inbreaking of God's kingdom through His ministry.

Theological Significance

The "Finger of God" is a powerful symbol of God's direct action in the world. It represents His creative power, as seen in the giving of the Law, and His redemptive power, as demonstrated in the miracles of Jesus. The phrase underscores the immediacy and effectiveness of God's will, executed without intermediary, and serves as a reminder of His sovereignty over all creation.

In the broader biblical narrative, the "Finger of God" is a testament to the reality of God's presence and His active involvement in human history. It calls believers to recognize and respond to the divine authority and to live in accordance with His revealed will.