Psalms 105:28 (KJV): "He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word."

This verse from Psalms 105 is part of a historical recollection of God's faithfulness to the people of Israel. The psalmist is recounting the events of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent journey to the promised land. The verse in question specifically refers to one of the plagues that God sent upon the Egyptians as a means of delivering His people from their bondage.

In order to fully grasp the meaning and significance of this particular verse, it is important to examine the broader context in which it is situated. Psalms 105 is a song of praise and thanksgiving, celebrating the covenant faithfulness of God and His ongoing deliverance of His people. The psalmist recounts the various ways in which God demonstrated His power and providence on behalf of the Israelites, from the covenant made with Abraham to the exodus from Egypt and the conquest of the promised land.

The verse begins with the statement, "He sent darkness, and made it dark." This is a reference to the ninth plague that God inflicted upon the land of Egypt, as recorded in the book of Exodus. During this plague, the entire land was covered in a thick darkness that lasted for three days, so intense that it could be felt. This darkness was not a natural occurrence, but rather a supernatural manifestation of God's divine power, intended to demonstrate His sovereignty and to bring judgment upon the Egyptians for their mistreatment of the Israelites.

The second part of the verse states, "and they rebelled not against his word." This is a testament to the obedience of the Israelites in the midst of this plague. Despite the oppressive darkness that enveloped the land, the Israelites remained faithful to God and did not rebel against His instructions. This highlights the contrast between the response of the Egyptians, who resisted God's will and suffered the consequences, and the response of the Israelites, who trusted in God's word and were ultimately delivered from their oppression.

In examining the broader themes and symbolism present in this verse, several key aspects emerge. Firstly, the verse serves as a reminder of God's absolute sovereignty and power. The sending of darkness as a divine judgment upon the Egyptians demonstrates God's ability to assert His will over the forces of nature and to bring about signs and wonders for the purpose of fulfilling His divine plan.

Secondly, the verse underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's word. The fact that the Israelites did not rebel against God's word in the midst of the darkness signifies their trust in His provision and their willingness to submit to His authority. This serves as a model for believers, emphasizing the need to remain steadfast in our faith and obedience even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

In a broader theological sense, this verse also points towards the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan for His people. The darkness that shrouded the land of Egypt can be seen as a prefiguration of the spiritual darkness of sin and bondage that afflicts all humanity. Through His deliverance of the Israelites from this darkness, God foreshadows His ultimate deliverance of all people from the power of sin and death through the atoning work of Christ.

In conclusion, Psalms 105:28 is a powerful and evocative verse that encapsulates the themes of God's sovereignty, human obedience, and divine deliverance. It serves as a poignant reminder of the faithfulness of God and His ongoing work of redemption in the world. As believers, we are called to emulate the faith and obedience of the Israelites, trusting in God's word and submitting to His will even in the midst of darkness. Ultimately, this verse points us towards the hope of ultimate deliverance and redemption in Christ, who is the light that shines in the darkness, offering salvation to all who believe.