Exodus 10:1

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the hearts of his officials, that I may perform these miraculous signs of Mine among them,

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses
This phrase introduces a direct communication from God to Moses, emphasizing the personal and authoritative nature of God's guidance. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and covenantal name of God, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature. This divine name underscores God's sovereignty and His intimate relationship with Israel. The phrase sets the stage for divine intervention, reminding us that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, guiding them according to His perfect will.

Go to Pharaoh
The command "Go" is a directive from God, indicating action and obedience. Moses is instructed to confront Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, who is seen as a powerful earthly authority. This command reflects God's intention to challenge and ultimately demonstrate His supremacy over earthly powers. The historical context here is significant, as Pharaoh was considered a god in Egyptian culture, yet the true God sends His servant to confront him, illustrating the theme of divine authority over human rulers.

for I have hardened his heart
The phrase "hardened his heart" is pivotal in understanding the narrative of the plagues. The Hebrew word used here is "chazaq," which can mean to strengthen, make firm, or harden. This action by God is part of His sovereign plan to reveal His power and glory. It raises theological questions about free will and divine sovereignty, yet it is clear that God's purposes are ultimately for the good of His people and the demonstration of His power. This hardening serves to fulfill God's plan of deliverance for Israel and judgment upon Egypt.

and the hearts of his officials
Not only is Pharaoh's heart hardened, but also the hearts of his officials. This collective hardening indicates a widespread resistance to God's will among the Egyptian leadership. It highlights the systemic nature of sin and rebellion against God. The officials, like Pharaoh, are part of the oppressive system that God is confronting. This serves as a reminder of the pervasive influence of leadership and the importance of aligning with God's purposes.

so that I may perform these signs of Mine among them
The purpose of the hardening is revealed in this phrase. The "signs" refer to the miraculous plagues that God will perform in Egypt. These signs are not merely acts of judgment but are intended to reveal God's power and authority. The phrase "of Mine" emphasizes that these signs are divine in origin, serving as a testament to God's sovereignty. The historical context of the plagues demonstrates God's control over creation and His ability to disrupt the natural order to achieve His purposes. This serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to intervene in human history to accomplish His divine will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is orchestrating the events to demonstrate His power and sovereignty.

2. Moses
The chosen leader and prophet of Israel, tasked with confronting Pharaoh and leading the Israelites out of Egypt.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened by God to fulfill His divine purposes.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, and where God is performing signs and wonders to secure their release.

5. The Signs
Miraculous events orchestrated by God to demonstrate His power and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all events, even the hardening of hearts, to fulfill His divine purposes.

Purpose of Hardening
Understand that God may allow resistance to His will to display His power and bring about His greater plan.

Role of Obedience
Like Moses, we are called to obey God's commands, even when facing opposition or seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Signs and Wonders
Reflect on how God uses miraculous events to reveal His character and intentions to both believers and non-believers.

Faith in Adversity
Trust in God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or when facing hardened hearts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our view of difficult situations in our lives?

2. In what ways can we see the purpose of God's signs and wonders in our own spiritual journey today?

3. How does Moses' obedience to God's command in the face of Pharaoh's hardened heart inspire us to act in faith?

4. What are some modern-day "Pharaohs" or obstacles that challenge our faith, and how can we rely on God's power to overcome them?

5. How do the events in Exodus 10:1 connect with the New Testament teachings on God's sovereignty and human responsibility?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4:21
This verse introduces the concept of God hardening Pharaoh's heart, setting the stage for the events in Exodus 10:1.

Romans 9:17-18
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in hardening hearts for His glory.

Deuteronomy 6:22
This verse recounts the signs and wonders performed in Egypt, emphasizing their role in Israel's deliverance.

Psalm 105:27-28
The psalmist reflects on the plagues in Egypt as a testament to God's mighty works.