And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee.
God promises to remove sickness and reverse the plagues of Egypt upon Israel's enemies. The 'evil diseases of Egypt' likely refers to plagues experienced during the Exodus and endemic diseases in Egypt (dysentery, ophthalmia, skin diseases). This demonstrates God's sovereign control over health and disease—both blessing and curse flow from His hand. The promise is covenant-conditional: obedience brings health; disobedience brings disease (Deuteronomy 28:27-28, 60-61). This isn't a health-wealth prosperity promise but covenant principle. The New Testament shows Christ healing diseases, demonstrating His power over sickness (Matthew 8:17). Ultimate healing comes in resurrection (Revelation 21:4), though God may graciously heal in this life.
Historical Context
Ancient Egypt suffered various endemic diseases due to poor sanitation, parasites from Nile water, and crowded urban conditions. The plagues of Exodus demonstrated God's power over disease and nature. In Israel's subsequent history, health and national vitality correlated with covenant faithfulness. Hezekiah's illness and healing (2 Kings 20) demonstrated both God's sovereignty over sickness and His mercy in response to prayer. The prophets warned that covenant violation would bring disease (Jeremiah 14:12; Ezekiel 14:19).
Questions for Reflection
How should you understand the relationship between sin, suffering, and sickness in light of Scripture?
What does God's promise to control disease teach about His sovereignty over all aspects of life?
How does Christ's healing ministry inform your prayers for healing and your response to sickness?
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Analysis & Commentary
God promises to remove sickness and reverse the plagues of Egypt upon Israel's enemies. The 'evil diseases of Egypt' likely refers to plagues experienced during the Exodus and endemic diseases in Egypt (dysentery, ophthalmia, skin diseases). This demonstrates God's sovereign control over health and disease—both blessing and curse flow from His hand. The promise is covenant-conditional: obedience brings health; disobedience brings disease (Deuteronomy 28:27-28, 60-61). This isn't a health-wealth prosperity promise but covenant principle. The New Testament shows Christ healing diseases, demonstrating His power over sickness (Matthew 8:17). Ultimate healing comes in resurrection (Revelation 21:4), though God may graciously heal in this life.