Exodus 11:4-8

The first-born sons, who were not old enough to be fathers themselves, would die (Exodus 11:5). This is a deduction supported by the following facts. First-born sons were symbolic of a nation’s strength and vigor (cf. Genesis 49:3). First-born sons were also those through whom the family line descended. Sons old enough to be fathers who had themselves fathered sons were members of the older generation. The younger generation was the focus of this plague. It was the male children of the Israelites that Pharaoh had killed previously (Exodus 1:15-22). When God later claimed the tribe of Levi in place of Israel’s first-born whom He spared in this plague (Numbers 3:12-13; cf. Exodus 22:29; Exodus 34:20), He chose only the males.

We owe God the first fruits of our labors because He is the source of all life and fruitfulness.

"In common with the rest of the ancient Near East, the Hebrews believed that the deity, as lord of the manor, was entitled to the first share of all produce. The firstfruits of plants and the firstborn of animals and man were his. The Lord demonstrated that he gave Egypt its life and owned it by taking its firstborn." [Note: Bruce K. Waltke, "Cain and His Offering," Westminster Theological Journal 48:2 (Fall 1986):368.]

Some critics of the Bible have challenged God’s justice in putting to death so many "innocent" children. Looked at one way, a priori, whatever God does is right because He is God. Looked at another way, God as the giver and sustainer of life is righteous in withdrawing life from any creature at any time because life belongs to Him. He can take it as well as give it at will. Furthermore the fact that humans are all sinners and sin results in death means that God is just in requiring the punishment for any individual’s sin at any time. We do not have any claim on God’s grace. God graciously did not kill all the Egyptians.

Moses’ anger reflected God’s wrath against Pharaoh for his stubborn rebellion (Exodus 11:8).

"To be in the presence of evil and not be angry is a dreadful spiritual and moral malady." [Note: Kaiser, "Exodus," p. 370.]