Embracing God's Authority: The Call to Surrender

Devotional

Day 1: Surrendering Fully to God's Authority

Pharaoh's question, "Who is the Lord that I should obey His voice?" is a question that resonates deeply in our modern culture. Many of us struggle with the idea of surrendering fully to God's authority. We often want to bargain with God, offering partial obedience while holding back areas of our lives. True surrender means giving God control over every aspect of our lives, trusting in His wisdom and authority. This is not an easy task, as it requires us to let go of our own desires and plans, and to trust that God's plans are better.

In the story of the plagues, Pharaoh's resistance to God's commands is a mirror of our own reluctance to fully surrender to God. Pharaoh tried to negotiate with Moses and Aaron, allowing them to worship but under his terms. However, God demands full surrender and demonstrates His power and authority through the plagues. This serves as a powerful reminder that partial obedience is not enough; God desires our complete and wholehearted submission to His will. [26:49]

Exodus 10:3-4 (ESV): "So Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh and said to him, 'Thus says the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, "How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, that they may serve me. For if you refuse to let my people go, behold, tomorrow I will bring locusts into your country.'"

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Day 2: God's Protective Grace

The plagues demonstrate God's ability to distinguish between His people and others. The Israelites in Goshen were spared from the plagues that afflicted the Egyptians. This distinction highlights God's protective grace over His people, even when they are not perfect. It reminds us that God's love and faithfulness remain steadfast, even when we falter.

God's distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians serves as a powerful reminder of His grace and protection. Despite the chaos and suffering around them, the Israelites were shielded from the plagues. This protection was not because of their own righteousness, but because of God's covenant and faithfulness. It is a comforting thought that, even in our imperfections, God remains faithful and extends His grace to us. [33:26]

Exodus 8:22-23 (ESV): "But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where my people dwell, so that no swarms of flies shall be there, that you may know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth. Thus I will put a division between my people and your people. Tomorrow this sign shall happen."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced God's protection or grace in your life. How did it impact your faith and trust in Him?

Day 3: The Danger of a Hardened Heart

Pharaoh's repeated hardening of his heart despite the clear signs of God's power serves as a warning. When we resist God's will, we bring suffering upon ourselves. The plagues show that rebellion against God leads to severe consequences. We must be willing to soften our hearts and turn back to God in genuine repentance.

The story of Pharaoh's hardened heart is a sobering reminder of the dangers of resisting God's will. Despite witnessing numerous miracles and signs, Pharaoh continued to harden his heart, leading to greater suffering for himself and his people. This serves as a warning to us about the consequences of a hardened heart. When we resist God's will, we not only distance ourselves from Him but also bring unnecessary suffering into our lives. It is crucial to remain open and responsive to God's guidance, allowing Him to soften our hearts and lead us in His ways. [42:16]

Exodus 9:34-35 (ESV): "But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned yet again and hardened his heart, he and his servants. So the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people of Israel go, just as the Lord had spoken through Moses."

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you have been resisting God's will? What steps can you take today to soften your heart and turn back to Him in genuine repentance?

Day 4: God's Justice and Mercy

God is a just judge who cannot overlook evil. The plagues are a demonstration of His justice, but they also reveal His mercy. Despite the Egyptians' suffering, God gives them multiple opportunities to repent. Similarly, God offers us grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, but we must accept it while the offer stands.

The plagues serve as a powerful demonstration of God's justice and mercy. While they were a form of judgment against Egypt's oppression and idolatry, they also provided multiple opportunities for repentance. God's justice demands that evil be addressed, but His mercy offers a way out through repentance and faith. This duality of justice and mercy is also evident in the gospel message. Through Jesus Christ, we are offered grace and forgiveness, but we must accept it while the offer stands. It is a reminder that God's justice and mercy go hand in hand, and we are called to respond to His grace with genuine repentance and faith. [58:55]

Exodus 34:6-7 (ESV): "The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, 'The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.'"

Reflection: How do you see God's justice and mercy at work in your own life? Are there areas where you need to seek His forgiveness and embrace His grace?

Day 5: The Urgency of Salvation

The plagues culminate in a darkness that can be felt, symbolizing the spiritual darkness of rejecting God. Yet, even in this darkness, the Israelites had light, representing God's grace. Today is the day of salvation; we must not harden our hearts but embrace the grace offered through Jesus Christ. The opportunity for salvation is now, and we must not delay in responding to God's call.

The final plague of darkness serves as a profound metaphor for the spiritual darkness that envelops those who reject God. This darkness was so intense that it could be felt, yet the Israelites had light in their dwellings. This contrast highlights the urgency of salvation and the grace that God offers. Today is the day of salvation, and we must not harden our hearts but embrace the grace offered through Jesus Christ. The opportunity for salvation is now, and we must not delay in responding to God's call. It is a reminder that God's grace is available to us, but we must choose to accept it and walk in His light. [55:46]

Isaiah 60:1-2 (ESV): "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you."

Reflection: Is there someone in your life who needs to hear about the urgency of salvation? How can you share the message of God's grace and light with them today?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Good morning, everyone. It's a blessing to have you all connected with us today, whether you're here in person or joining us online. We are continuing our series through the book of Exodus, focusing on the plagues that God brought upon Egypt. Today, we delve into the latter plagues, starting from the plague of flies and moving through to the plague of darkness. These plagues serve as God's response to Pharaoh's question, "Who is the Lord that I should obey His voice?" This question is not just ancient; it resonates with our modern culture, where many struggle with the idea of surrendering to God's authority.

Pharaoh's resistance to God's commands is a mirror of our own reluctance to fully surrender to God. We often want to bargain with God, offering partial obedience while holding back areas of our lives. This is evident in how Pharaoh tries to negotiate with Moses and Aaron, allowing them to worship but under his terms. God, however, demands full surrender and demonstrates His power and authority through these plagues.

Each plague escalates in severity, showing God's control over all creation. From the flies that swarmed Egypt but spared the land of Goshen, to the livestock plague that distinguished between Egyptian and Israelite animals, and the boils that afflicted even Pharaoh's magicians, God’s power is undeniable. Despite these clear signs, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, much like how we sometimes resist God's will even when faced with the consequences of our actions.

The plagues culminate in a darkness that can be felt, a profound metaphor for the spiritual darkness that envelops those who reject God. Yet, even in this darkness, the Israelites had light in their dwellings, symbolizing God's grace and protection for His people. This distinction underscores God's justice and mercy—He is a just judge who punishes evil but also a gracious Savior who offers redemption.

As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of God's sovereignty and the importance of full surrender to His will. The evidence of God's power and authority is overwhelming, and He calls us to respond with genuine repentance and faith. Today is the day of salvation; let us not harden our hearts but embrace the grace and mercy offered through Jesus Christ.

###

Key Takeaways

1. 6Vl8&t=1609s'>[26:49]
2. God's Distinction Between His People and Others: The plagues demonstrate God's ability to distinguish between His people and others. The Israelites in Goshen were spared from the plagues that afflicted the Egyptians. This distinction highlights God's protective grace over His people, even when they are not perfect. It reminds us that God's love and faithfulness remain steadfast, even when we falter.

3. The Consequences of a Hardened Heart: Pharaoh's repeated hardening of his heart despite the clear signs of God's power serves as a warning. When we resist God's will, we bring suffering upon ourselves. The plagues show that rebellion against God leads to severe consequences. We must be willing to soften our hearts and turn back to God in genuine repentance.

4. God's Justice and Mercy: God is a just judge who cannot overlook evil. The plagues are a demonstration of His justice, but they also reveal His mercy. Despite the Egyptians' suffering, God gives them multiple opportunities to repent. Similarly, God offers us grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, but we must accept it while the offer stands.

5. The Urgency of Salvation: The plagues culminate in a darkness that can be felt, symbolizing the spiritual darkness of rejecting God. Yet, even in this darkness, the Israelites had light, representing God's grace. Today is the day of salvation; we must not harden our hearts but embrace the grace offered through Jesus Christ. The opportunity for salvation is now, and we must not delay in responding to God's call.

### [26:49]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[25:14] - Introduction to the Plagues
[26:49] - Pharaoh's Question: Who is the Lord?
[28:05] - Bargaining with God
[30:59] - The Plague of Flies
[33:26] - God's Distinction: Goshen
[35:55] - Pharaoh's Reluctance
[38:57] - The Plague on Livestock
[40:29] - The Plague of Boils
[42:16] - Consequences of a Hardened Heart
[45:15] - The Plague of Hail
[48:14] - Worldly Sorrow vs. Godly Sorrow
[49:40] - The Plague of Darkness
[55:46] - The Urgency of Salvation
[58:55] - God's Justice and Mercy
[60:42] - The Just Judge
[62:22] - The Gracious Savior
[66:14] - Today is the Day of Salvation
[69:20] - Invitation and Closing Prayer
[73:12] - Baptism Celebration
[78:18] - Communion and Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What was Pharaoh's initial reaction to the plagues, and how did his attitude change over time? ([30:59])
How did God demonstrate His authority and power through the plagues? Provide specific examples from the sermon. ([31:49])
What distinction did God make between the Egyptians and the Israelites during the plagues? ([33:26])
How did Pharaoh attempt to bargain with God, and what was God's response? ([35:01])

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Pharaoh's heart remained hardened despite witnessing God's power through the plagues? ([42:16])
How does the distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites during the plagues reflect God's justice and mercy? ([33:26])
In what ways do the plagues serve as a metaphor for spiritual darkness and light in our lives today? ([49:40])
How does the sermon illustrate the consequences of partial obedience to God? ([35:55])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you tried to bargain with God, offering partial obedience. What was the outcome, and how did it affect your relationship with God? ([35:01])
Are there areas in your life where you are resisting full surrender to God's authority? What steps can you take to fully submit to Him? ([28:05])
How can you ensure that your repentance is genuine and not just a response to getting caught or facing consequences? ([48:14])
In what ways can you recognize and respond to God's protective grace in your life, even when you falter? ([33:26])
How can you cultivate a sense of urgency in your spiritual life, recognizing that today is the day of salvation? ([55:46])
Think of a specific area where you have experienced God's justice and mercy. How can you share this testimony to encourage others? ([58:55])
Identify one aspect of your life where you need to trust in God's wisdom and authority more fully. What practical steps can you take this week to grow in that trust? ([28:49])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Isn't it? That's really a 2024 question for our culture here in America that people are asking. They're really threatened by the idea that there is actually an authority, God, who could actually have rule over them and their lives and the particulars of their everyday life. And even if some people in the church are really battling with this idea, who is the Lord that he could have that kind of place in my life? And that kind of authority that I should have to surrender to him in all things. I mean, our culture can tolerate the idea of God as long as he minds his own business. Right? Stays out of my life. The personal stuff I've got going on. As long as he stays out of that, I'm good with the idea that there's a God." [26:49] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "When he asks us to step out of our comfort zone, step into areas where we can't see ahead of time how this is going to work. And we're not even convinced it's going to be good if we do that. What gives him the right to tell us to do those things? To insist on it in our lives? It's fine to believe in God as long as he has no real authority. Or says, And the everyday functions of our lives. In fact, we think sometimes that we would make a better God than him. Now, we don't say that out loud. But we live like it a lot of times. We know what God says about this, but we think we know better. And we're going to do it our way. The world's way. The culture's way. Because we actually think, without saying it out loud, that we're making a better God for ourselves than the true God." [28:05] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "You can have this God, but not that. You can have that part, but not that part. And God wants it all. He wants full surrender in all those areas. And that's why Pharaoh is going to understand that doesn't solve his problem when he tries to bargain with God. God's going to teach him that lesson. Moses and Aaron, they say to Pharaoh, that wouldn't be right. We can't worship God here in this land because your people will be offended by our worship of God. And God told us to go away from here to worship him. That's what we're supposed to do. And Pharaoh keeps trying to bargain and make it work some other way than full surrender to God." [37:24] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The evidence is overwhelming for God. The evidence is overwhelming for the reliability of Scripture. The evidence is overwhelming for the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The evidence is overwhelming for the reliability of Scripture. The evidence is overwhelming for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The evidence is there. The only thing that could keep you from God is you hardening your heart against him in spite of the evidence." [55:46] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The thing about the grace of God, it's amazing. It is limitless. It doesn't matter where you've been, what you've done, where I've been, what I've done. God's grace is sufficient for anything that we have in our lives that needs to be forgiven and paid for. He has offered us payment through his son Jesus on the cross. He has offered us payment through his son Jesus on the cross. But understand this offer today. The offer is being made. There will be a time where the offer is not available anymore. And here's how it's going to happen. Either we die first, the offer is gone, we didn't take advantage of it, or Jesus comes back first. And once that happens, that's the end of the age where this grace offer of forgiveness is given through Jesus." [01:06:14] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "So what was the question? Who is the Lord? That I should obey him. And God, in his mercy and in his judgment, is saying, so that you may know that I'm the Lord. And here's what I'm going to do. I'm going to do exactly these things that I'm telling you I was going to do. To show you, to prove to you, that I have every right to hold that position of authority and rule over you. And all that I have created. And so this week, we're going to pick up with those next plagues that came. Because each time in those first three, Pharaoh kind of relented a little bit. Then he decided, no, no, his heart was hardened again. And he wouldn't let the people go. Remember Moses and Abraham. They're going to Pharaoh. Asking that Pharaoh does what God said to do, which was to let the people go and worship him." [30:12] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Now, you have to understand, Goshen is right in the middle of everybody else. So for this distinction to be made is amazing that God was going to draw that line around just that area of Goshen. And they were not going to experience these plagues starting with the flies. Now, up until then, the Israelites had suffered with the Egyptians. You have to remember, the Israelites weren't innocent either. All right? They ended up in Egypt. They ended up in Egypt because of their rebellion and their sin against God. So God allows them to suffer some consequences of their choices. But now he says, I'm going to draw a great distinction here to answer that question, who is the Lord, that I should obey him. Now, I'm going to talk about this again in a few minutes, but I want you to understand that distinction also means that even when we failed and we're imperfect and we've made mistakes, what happens with God? His love still stays. His love stays true for his people. He still loves his people. Even when we've not always been faithful to him, he is faithful to those who belong to him." [33:26] (70 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Oftentimes, remember, when we're suffering consequences for bad things in our lives, whether we admit it's our fault or not, we ask God to help us. And God calls us to repentance, to turn back to him through those bad things that happen. And we go through the motions of repentance. Without real repentance taking place. Maybe you've done this, maybe you've seen people do this, where the Bible puts it this way. There is worldly sorrow and there's godly sorrow, right? Worldly sorrow, he says, leads to death. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to life. It's like asking your child, are you sorry for what you've done, or are you just sorry that you got caught? Right? A lot of times what we're calling repentance is just we're sorry that we got caught and we're having to pay a price for it. That's not repentance. That's worldly sorrow. That only leads to death. Godly sorrow produces a change. That's repentance. Where we're not going to keep doing that anymore. We're going to turn our lives around. We're going to start going a different direction now than what we were going before." [48:14] (81 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The Lord is the true God. Remember back in Exodus 3, when God first appeared to Moses and said, I want you to go back to your people, tell them that I sent you to go before Pharaoh and tell them to let you go from your bondage and your slavery. And one of the things Moses asked sounded a lot like Pharaoh. Who shall I say sent me? If they don't believe me, what do I tell them? Who should I say sent me to you? Who is it that gives me the authority to do this? Who is it that they need to be listening to when I say I'm from you? And he says, remember in Exodus 3, 14, I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites. I am has sent you. I am who I am. I be who I be. Because the tense in the Hebrew here, when we say I am, it is I am being who I have always been. I am the Lord God. Friends, he's saying to Moses in that statement that so that you may know that I am the Lord God, you go back and do this. So that my people may know that I am the Lord God, you go back and do this. So that Pharaoh may know with his question about who I am that he should submit to me. You go back because I am going to continue to show the world I am the true God. And he's still showing us that evidence even today, over and over again, that he is the true God." [57:31] (99 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "He's a just God. And a just God will not allow evil to go unpunished. He will not. You see, Israel had done evil too, and they're going to have to suffer for that, and they have. And a just God is still there today with the evil that's going on in the world today. So don't think that God is weakening at evil and turning his head from it because he is a just God. And in order to be just, you cannot turn your head to evil. You have to address it. And God does address evil in the world. I love how he has demonstrated to Pharaoh and to his own people and to all of Egypt and now to the whole world through Scripture how God in his justice demands payment for evil. Why is that such a big deal? It's because that's what the cross is all about, friends. You see, in order for sin to be forgiven, in order for sin to be atoned for, payment had to be made. If he wasn't a just God, payment would not have to be made. But because he's a just God, payment for sin has to be made. The wages of sin is what? Death. He's a just God." [01:02:22] (89 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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