The narrative of Moses and Aaron in the Book of Exodus presents a series of divine interventions that demonstrate God's power and sovereignty over the natural world and the affairs of nations. These miracles, often referred to as the plagues of Egypt, were wrought through Moses and Aaron as instruments of God's will, serving both as judgments against the Egyptians and as signs to the Israelites of God's deliverance.

Context and Purpose

The miracles performed by Moses and Aaron were primarily aimed at compelling Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. The Egyptians had enslaved the Israelites, and their cries for deliverance reached God, who appointed Moses and Aaron to lead His people out of Egypt. The miracles served a dual purpose: to demonstrate God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods and to affirm His covenant with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The Plagues

1. Water Turned to Blood (Exodus 7:14-25): The first plague involved turning the waters of the Nile into blood. This act not only demonstrated God's power over the life-sustaining river but also served as a direct affront to the Egyptian deity Hapi, the god of the Nile. "And all the water in the Nile was turned to blood" (Exodus 7:20).

2. Frogs (Exodus 8:1-15): The second plague brought an overwhelming infestation of frogs, which invaded Egyptian homes and disrupted daily life. This plague challenged the goddess Heqet, who was symbolized by a frog and associated with fertility.

3. Gnats (Exodus 8:16-19): The third plague saw the dust of the earth become gnats, afflicting both man and beast. The magicians of Egypt, unable to replicate this miracle, acknowledged, "This is the finger of God" (Exodus 8:19).

4. Flies (Exodus 8:20-32): Swarms of flies descended upon Egypt, sparing only the land of Goshen where the Israelites resided. This distinction underscored God's protection over His people.

5. Livestock Diseased (Exodus 9:1-7): A severe pestilence struck the Egyptian livestock, while the livestock of the Israelites remained unharmed. This plague further demonstrated God's ability to differentiate between His people and their oppressors.

6. Boils (Exodus 9:8-12): Painful boils afflicted the Egyptians and their animals, showcasing God's power over health and well-being.

7. Hail (Exodus 9:13-35): A devastating hailstorm, accompanied by fire, destroyed crops and livestock in the fields. The severity of this plague was unprecedented, as Moses warned Pharaoh, "I will send the full force of My plagues against you and your officials and your people" (Exodus 9:14).

8. Locusts (Exodus 10:1-20): A swarm of locusts consumed what remained after the hail, leaving Egypt in ruin. This plague highlighted the futility of relying on the land's fertility without God's blessing.

9. Darkness (Exodus 10:21-29): A palpable darkness enveloped Egypt for three days, a direct challenge to Ra, the sun god. Yet, the Israelites had light in their dwellings, emphasizing God's provision.

10. Death of the Firstborn (Exodus 11:1-12:30): The final and most severe plague resulted in the death of every firstborn in Egypt, from Pharaoh's household to the lowest servant. This act of judgment led to the institution of the Passover, a lasting ordinance for the Israelites.

Significance

The miracles wrought through Moses and Aaron were not mere displays of power but were deeply theological, revealing God's character and His commitment to His covenant people. They demonstrated His authority over creation, His judgment against idolatry, and His mercy towards those who trust in Him. Through these acts, God established His name among the nations and set the stage for the deliverance and formation of Israel as His chosen people.Exodus 14:26-28
And the LORD said to Moses, Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the waters may come again on the Egyptians, on their chariots, and on their horsemen.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... he putteth no trust in his servants, and chargeth ... the centurion was found worthy
through alms-giving ... who, while he was fasting, had wrought miracles, no sooner ...
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