Daily Lectionary | Exodus 8 & Matthew 13:1-23

Exodus 8

Summary

In Exodus 8, the first cycle of plagues ends and the second cycle begins. The first plague targeted the water of the nile, the second plague targets the land with an invasion of frogs which come up from the water. The frogs are perhaps associated with a demonic infestation (cf. Rev. 16:13-14). Pharaoh asks for relief from Moses, who then intercedes on his behalf. But when there was a respite from the frogs, Pharaoh hardens his heart.

The next plague affects the heavens, the atmosphere, with a swarm of gnats. Now each sphere of creation has been judged. This time the magicians of Pharaoh could not replicated the gnats and confessed: “This is the finger of God!” The magicians recognize they are outmatched, but Pharaoh will keep hardening his heart.

The second cycle of plagues begins with flies which fill Egyptian houses. Beginning with this cycle, the land of Goshen will be separated out from judgment. The LORD will put a division between his people and the Egyptians. 

Pharaoh attempts a compromise. He calls for Aaron and Moses to sacrifice within the land. Pharaoh was willing now to permit a bit of religious freedom but he wanted to keep them under his thumb as his slaves. 

Reflection

The Hebrews were presumably affected by the first three plagues. Now at the beginning of the second cycle, there will be a distinction. What’s the significance of this separation? 

Matthew 13:1-23

Summary 

Matthew chapter 13 contains 7 parables and the word “parable” 12 times. The parables have a sifting function; they filter out those who refuse to believe and bringing illumination to those who have eyes to see. These parables are parables that reveal the secret of the kingdom of heaven, and Jesus pronounces a blessing on the eyes that see and ears that hear what he says through the parables. 

The parable of the sower presents four different types of soil and responses to the Word that is sown in the soil. Jesus explains this parable in vv. 18-23, and it seems straightforward: some soil will reject what is sown but the good soil will bear much fruit.

We can hear this parable as how individuals respond to the gospel, but in the more immediate context, we hear this parable in the symphony of Israel’s story. Jesus has been proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom to Israel. But increasingly, like the rejected prophets of the Old Testament era, Jesus’ message is falling on deaf ears. 

But Jesus will not ultimately sow the gospel in vain, his word will find fertile soil and it will bear fruit. 

Reflection

Where does Jesus’ word seem to be bearing fruit in the Gospels? What sort of fruit does the word of God produce in good soil?