Lutheran Lens Commentary: Exodus 11:1-10

Lutheran Lens Reading of Exodus 11:1-10

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Exodus 11:1-10 as a vivid illustration of the Law at work, revealing the depth of human sinfulness and rebellion against God. This passage exposes Pharaoh's hardened heart, illustrating humanity's incapacity to choose God without divine intervention. The coming final plague is a manifestation of God's judgment, which the Law pronounces upon sin. Yet, within this judgment, we see a foreshadowing of the Gospel, as the eventual deliverance of Israel points us to Christ's ultimate deliverance of humanity from sin and death.

Key Language Decisions

The original Hebrew text uses the term 'heavy' (כָּבֵד, kabed) to describe Pharaoh's heart, indicating a heart that is obstinately unyielding—a key element in understanding the total depravity of human nature. The phrase 'about midnight' (כַּחֲצֹת הַלַּיְלָה, kaḥatzot halayla) emphasizes the unexpected and sovereign timing of God's action, underscoring the theological concept of God's rule over history and human affairs.

Where Traditions Diverge

Lutheran Lens tradition diverges from Reformed readings that might emphasize God's sovereign election and predestination in a deterministic way. We maintain a focus on the Law's function to reveal human incapacity and the need for Christ, rather than on God's election as a mechanism of exclusion. Unlike some evangelical traditions, we avoid moralizing the story into a lesson about leadership or decision-making, focusing instead on God's action and promise.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this text, a Lutheran Lens pastor should emphasize the severity of God's Law and the inevitable judgment it pronounces on sin, allowing it to do its full, terrifying work. This prepares the congregation to hear the Gospel's promise of deliverance through Christ, who is our true Passover Lamb. Highlight the tension between Law and Gospel, encouraging the congregation to see their own sinful nature in Pharaoh's obstinacy and to rejoice in the deliverance offered in Christ alone. Emphasize the means of grace as the way God delivers this promise to us today, encouraging the congregation to find assurance in their baptismal identity and the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper.

Cross-References: Romans 9:17-18; 1 Corinthians 10:1-11; Hebrews 11:28; John 1:14-17; 1 Peter 2:9-10

Doctrinal Connections: Law and Gospel; Theology of the Cross; Total Depravity; Justification by Faith Alone; Two Kingdoms Doctrine