Introduction
In this devotional, we delve into Exodus 9-10 and Matthew 18:1-20, passages that present themes of judgment, humility, and community in God's kingdom. These scriptures from different contexts provide insights into God's dealings with stubbornness and sin, and the principles of kingdom life as taught by Jesus, all under the lens of Reformed and covenant theology.
Exodus 9-10 Summary
Exodus 9-10 continues the narrative of the plagues in Egypt. The plagues of livestock, boils, hail, locusts, and darkness escalate in intensity, displaying God's power and judgment against Pharaoh's stubbornness and the gods of Egypt. Despite the severity of these plagues, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened. These chapters illustrate the themes of divine judgment and the consequences of persistent rebellion against God.
Matthew 18:1-20 Summary
In Matthew 18:1-20, Jesus teaches about greatness in the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing humility and childlike trust. He warns against causing others to stumble and teaches about the importance of seeking the lost, illustrating with the parable of the lost sheep. This section also includes teachings on forgiveness and dealing with sin in the community, highlighting the need for restoration and the power of agreement in prayer.
Key Theological Concepts
Divine Judgment and Human Rebellion: The plagues in Exodus reflect God’s judgment against persistent rebellion, a theme mirrored in Matthew by Jesus’ warnings against causing sin.
Humility and Community in God’s Kingdom: Jesus’ teachings about being like children and seeking the lost in Matthew demonstrate kingdom values of humility, care for others, and community life.
Restoration and Forgiveness: The emphasis on reconciliation and forgiveness in Matthew reflects the heart of God’s kingdom, contrasting with the hardened heart of Pharaoh in Exodus.
Reflection
Exodus 9-10 and Matthew 18:1-20, though set in vastly different times, both address the response to God's authority. In Exodus, we see the severe consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart. In contrast, in Matthew, Jesus presents a vision of life in God’s kingdom marked by humility, care for others, and the pursuit of reconciliation. These passages challenge us to examine our own hearts and attitudes, encouraging us to embrace kingdom values and to live in a way that honors God and strengthens community.
Application Points
Examine Your Response to God's Authority: Reflect on your own heart’s response to God’s authority, learning from both Pharaoh’s hardness and the disciples’ willingness to learn from Jesus.
Cultivate Humility and Care for Others: Embrace the humility and childlike trust that Jesus teaches, actively caring for those in your community, especially the vulnerable or lost.
Practice Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Be proactive in seeking reconciliation and practicing forgiveness in your relationships, following the principles Jesus lays out for community life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we explore the lessons from the plagues in Exodus and Jesus' teachings in Matthew, we are reminded of Your sovereignty, the importance of humility, and the value of community in Your kingdom. Help us to respond to Your authority with a heart that is soft and teachable. Guide us to live in humility, to care for those around us, and to seek reconciliation and forgiveness. May our lives reflect the values of Your kingdom and Your love for all. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.