Exodus 11

This lessons remind us of God’s power and might, His love for life, and the danger of a stubborn heart

The Plague of the First Born

Lesson Summary

At the very beginning, Adam and Eve trusted God to tell them what was right and wrong. But Eve chose to make her own decision. Because of that sin, their hearts—and ours—became selfish. That’s why people don’t always judge fairly.

Only God has a perfect heart. He sees everything, even what we can’t. He always judges fairly. When Pharaoh refused to let God’s people go, even after many chances, God sent a final warning. Pharaoh still didn’t listen, and the plague of the firstborn came. This was a punishment for his stubbornness and for hurting the Israelites.

Key Bible Verse:

Genesis 9:5–6 (NIrV)

• “I will certainly hold someone accountable if you are murdered… Anyone who murders a human being will be killed by a human being. That is because I have made human beings so that they are like me.”

God cares deeply about life. Every person is made in His image. That’s why taking someone’s life is such a serious sin. God’s punishment shows how much He values each life.

Now, if the plague of the firstborn seems too harsh, remember:

• Pharaoh had many chances to listen to God. In Exodus 11:4, Moses warned Pharaoh that every firstborn in Egypt would die at midnight.

• Pharaoh could have said, “Tell God I’m sorry. I’ll obey.” But he didn’t.

This was the result of Pharaoh’s stubborn heart. He had already been hurting God’s people for a long time—especially by killing many Israelite baby boys. God values life. In Genesis 9, God says human life is special because we are made in His image.

Discussion Question

Q: What would happen if people got away with crimes like murder?

A: There would be more murders.

Activity: “Choices and Consequences”

Materials: Paper and pencils

1. Ask students to think of a time someone made a selfish choice that hurt others (in real life or a story).

2. Have them write down:

• What the choice was

• What happened because of it

• What could have been done differently

3. Discuss as a class how choices have consequences, just like Pharaoh’s stubbornness led to serious consequences.

Optional extension: Have students draw two paths — one where someone obeys God or makes a wise choice, and one where they disobey or make a selfish choice. Compare the results.