Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Psalms

Psalms 
Day 
Day 148

Psalm 78:51a "And destroyed all the firstborn in Egypt..."

Day 148 – Psalm 78

“And destroyed all the firstborn in Egypt…” Psalm 78:51a

THE FINAL PLAGUE

The tenth and last plague was the most awesome of all the plagues. God would cause the firstborn in Egypt to die.

“And destroyed all the firstborn in Egypt,
The first of their strength in the tents of Ham.”
Psalm 78:51

1. Forewarning

a) Nine plagues were inflicted on Pharaoh and Egypt.
b) Devastating plagues crippled mighty Egypt.
c) Pharaoh had hardened his heart all this while.
d) Forewarning was given that God would destroy the firstborn in Egypt (Exodus 11).

2. Preparation

a) God gave careful and clear instructions about how Israel may escape this plague (Exodus 12).
b) They must kill a Passover Lamb and smear its blood on the door posts of their homes.
c) Henceforth all future generations must observe this as a Memorial Feast.

3. God’s Personal involvement

a) I will pass through the land of Egypt (Exodus 12:12).
b) And will strike all the firstborn in Egypt, both man and beast (Exodus 12:12).
c) Against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment (Exodus 12:12).
d) When I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be on you
to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt (Exodus 12:13).

4. And destroyed all the firstborn in Egypt

Solemnly, Asaph noted that this occurred in the land of Egypt.

5. The first of their strength in the tents of Ham

Reference to Ham is more symbolic than ethnic. Just as Ham was cursed by Noah, so ancient Egypt was cursed by God for ill-treating the children of Israel for four hundred and thirty years (Exodus 12:40-41).