V.1-7 The fifth punishment (or plague). The Lord separates even the animals; but Pharaoh still does not believe and will not listen.
V.8-12 The sixth punishment. Now beginning to get closer by touching the bodies of the Egyptians including their “miracle men.” Still no change in Pharaoh!
V.13-26 The seventh punishment. With a special warning more personally to Pharaoh. He had his place of authority from God (see Rom. 13:11Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (Romans 13:1)), but he was making much of himself and not obeying God’s Word. He owed his very life to God (vvs. 16-17) but would not admit it. Some of his servants showed that they believed God by their actions (v. 20). If leaders go against God, we cannot follow their example, but act by faith ourselves.
V.27-35 Pharaoh’s first confession of sin, but did he mean it? Moses could see that Pharaoh was not on God’s side, but Moses in mercy again prays for those who could not pray for themselves. The Lord is honored, and Pharaoh became more responsible than ever in his foolish actions.