Contextual Overview

The surrounding chapters in Exodus detail the hardening of Pharaoh's heart and the series of plagues that were sent as a sign of God's power and a call for the Israelites' liberation from slavery. Exodus 9:31 is crucial because it underscores the devastating impact of the hail on Egypt's agriculture, particularly on the crops that were closest to harvest.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry highlights that the destruction of the flax and barley signifies not just a loss of crops but also a severe blow to Egypt's economy and food supply. The timing of this plague, as indicated by the state of the crops, shows God's precise control over nature.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes elaborates on the significance of the flax and barley, explaining that these crops were vital in ancient Egypt for clothing and sustenance. Their destruction illustrates God's intent to demonstrate His authority over the natural order and the deities that Egypt worshiped, which were believed to control fertility and weather.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke brings attention to the fact that the mention of crops in their growth stage indicates that the damage was particularly irreparable for the Egyptians. Clarke notes that this is part of God's ultimate plan to liberate His people by showing the futility of relying on false gods.

Bible Cross-References

Exodus 9:31 can be cross-referenced with the following Bible verses which illuminate related themes and highlight connections within scripture:

• Exodus 10:4-5 - Further plagues are described, reinforcing the judgment against Egypt.
• Exodus 12:12 - The Lord's judgment on the gods of Egypt signifies His supremacy.
• Deuteronomy 28:38-39 - Discusses the consequences of disobedience leading to agricultural failure.
• Psalms 105:32-33 - A summary of the plagues God sent to Egypt, including hail.
• Isaiah 28:2 - Refers to the might of the Lord in contrast to the weakness of those who oppose Him.
• Revelation 8:7 - The concept of plagues is reiterated in the context of the end times.
• Matthew 24:7 - Signs of the last days include famines and earthquakes, paralleling God's judgment theme.
• James 5:17 - A reminder that God can control nature, as seen through the example of Elijah's prayers affecting rain.
• Romans 1:20 - God’s invisible attributes are perceived through the created world, reinforcing His power over nature.
• 2 Peter 3:10 - The day of the Lord will come with destruction, echoing the themes of judgment present in Exodus.

Thematic Connections

The themes found in Exodus 9:31 resonate with various other Biblical passages, indicating the following:

• God's Sovereignty: God's control over nature is a prevalent theme across both the Old and New Testaments.
• Judgment: The consistent Biblical narrative of God's judgment on sin and rebellion against Him can be seen throughout scripture.
• Deliverance: The overarching story of the Exodus leads to the final deliverance and redemption themes found in the New Testament.

Understanding Through Cross-Referencing

Cross-referencing Bible verses helps in a deeper understanding of Exodus 9:31. By examining the interconnectedness of these texts, one can grasp how they reinforce the messages of judgment, sovereignty, and deliverance present in the Bible. Cross-referencing Bible study tools such as a Bible concordance or cross-reference guide can aid in this exploration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Exodus 9:31 serves as an important verse that illustrates God's judgment upon Egypt and emphasizes His sovereignty over creation. By engaging with various commentaries and cross-referencing related scriptures, one can gain a fuller understanding of the profound messages present in this verse and the surrounding text.