A camera at a café in Sumy, Ukraine, recorded a young woman shielding her tiny daughter with her own body after an aerial bomb exploded. Images like that stir a longing for someone to finally deal with evil. This sermon leads us into the story of the ten plagues of Egypt, in which God hears the cry of the slaves and answers Pharaoh’s violence (Exod 7-12). He shows His power over the gods of Egypt, brings justice, and gives deliverance through the blood of a lamb. Listen if, in a world full of injustice, you are looking for an answer to the question of whether there is a power that will bring justice to your own road as well.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- How do the plagues in Exodus 7-12 show that the God of Israel is more powerful than the gods of Egypt, such as Hapi or Ra?
- What stands out as the plagues continue: God protects the Israelites, and Egyptians who believe Him are protected too? What does this say about God's character?
- Which examples of evil and injustice stir up the strongest protest in you and the longing for someone to put things right?
- How do you respond to the picture of a God who brings justice and is also gracious? What moves or troubles you about it?
- How does the blood of the lamb on the doors of the Israelites' houses point to what Jesus did for us on the cross?
- What could help you this week to remember that God is greater than the evil that overwhelms you?
