Psalms 136:10 – “to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt, His love endures forever.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Psalm 136:10 recalls a specific event in the history of Israel—the striking down of Egypt’s firstborn during the time of Moses. This was the final and most severe of the ten plagues God sent upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. While this act might seem harsh, it was a demonstration of God’s commitment to freeing His people from oppression. The verse underscores that God’s love endures forever, even in acts of judgment. For the Israelites, this was a powerful reminder that God’s love for them was so great that He would go to any lengths to secure their freedom and fulfill His promises to them.

Historical Context

The event referenced in this verse is from the book of Exodus (Exodus 12:29-30). After enduring nine previous plagues, Pharaoh’s heart remained hard, and he refused to let the Israelites go. The death of the firstborn in Egypt was the final blow that led to the release of God’s people. This event marked the birth of the Passover, a celebration that became central to the identity of the Israelites. They were instructed to remember how God passed over their homes and spared their firstborn while bringing judgment on Egypt. The psalmist includes this moment to remind the people of God’s mighty power to save and His willingness to intervene for the sake of His people.

Theological Implications

This verse reveals the depth of God’s love for His people. While the judgment on Egypt was severe, it was also an act of deliverance. God’s love is not just about comfort and provision but also about justice and protection. Sometimes, God’s love is shown through His willingness to judge evil and bring freedom to the oppressed. Theologically, this verse shows that God’s love is steadfast and faithful, even when it requires difficult actions to fulfill His purposes. God’s enduring love means He will not abandon His people, even if it means confronting powerful forces to protect them.

Literary Analysis

Psalm 136 uses a pattern where each verse recounts an act of God, followed by the refrain, “His love endures forever.” The inclusion of this phrase after mentioning a severe judgment serves to remind readers that even acts that seem harsh are rooted in God’s eternal love. The psalmist is highlighting the tension between God’s justice and His mercy. The mention of striking down the firstborn emphasizes God’s power to intervene dramatically when His people are in need. By placing this verse among others that celebrate God’s acts of creation and provision, the psalmist invites readers to see that God’s love encompasses both tenderness and strength.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

1. Exodus 12:29 – “At midnight the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh, who sat on the throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner, who was in the dungeon, and the firstborn of all the livestock as well.”
2. Exodus 6:6 – “Therefore, say to the Israelites: ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.’”
3. Deuteronomy 7:8 – “But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery.”
4. Hebrews 11:28 – “By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Psalm 136:10 is a reminder that God is committed to delivering His people, even if it requires strong measures. The striking down of Egypt’s firstborn can be difficult to understand, but it reflects God’s determination to bring justice and to protect those He loves. This verse reassures believers that God will fight for them, even against seemingly impossible odds. In the face of oppression or spiritual bondage, God’s love is not passive; it is active and powerful. This verse challenges us to trust in God’s ability to deliver us, knowing that His love is enduring and unchanging.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

While the judgment on Egypt may seem severe, it was also an expression of God’s deep love for His people. God had heard the cries of the Israelites who were suffering under slavery, and He chose to intervene in a powerful way to set them free. The refrain, “His love endures forever,” shows that even God’s acts of judgment are rooted in His love and faithfulness. God’s love does not ignore injustice but confronts it. For those who are oppressed, God’s love is a source of hope and deliverance. This verse teaches us that God’s love includes both compassion for the innocent and a willingness to confront evil.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The event of God striking down the firstborn in Egypt foreshadows the sacrifice of Jesus, God’s only Son, to deliver humanity from the bondage of sin. Just as the death of the firstborn in Egypt led to the release of the Israelites, the death of Jesus on the cross brought spiritual freedom to all who believe in Him. Jesus is referred to as the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The Passover sacrifice, which protected the Israelites from God’s judgment, pointed forward to Christ’s sacrifice, which saves us from the ultimate judgment. In Romans 5:8, we see that God demonstrates His love for us through Christ’s death, showing that God’s love is both sacrificial and enduring.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does understanding God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt shape your view of God’s love and justice?
2. In what ways have you experienced God’s deliverance in your own life?
3. How can we reconcile God’s acts of judgment with His enduring love?
4. How does the sacrifice of Jesus as the “Lamb of God” deepen your appreciation of God’s love for you?
5. How can you trust God’s love even when He allows difficult or challenging circumstances in your life?

Psalm 136:10 reminds us that God’s love is not just about comfort but also about deliverance. His love is strong enough to confront evil, protect His people, and set them free. This powerful truth encourages us to trust in God’s enduring love, knowing that He is willing to fight for us, no matter the cost.