Exodus 10:27

But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he was unwilling to let them go.

Study Bible

But the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and authority of God in the narrative. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and unchanging nature. In the context of Exodus, it underscores God's direct involvement and control over the events unfolding in Egypt. Historically, this reflects the belief in a God who is not distant but actively engaged in the affairs of His people, guiding them according to His divine will.

hardened Pharaoh’s heart
The Hebrew word for "hardened" is "chazaq," which can mean to strengthen, make firm, or harden. This phrase has been the subject of much theological discussion, as it raises questions about free will and divine sovereignty. In the context of Exodus, it illustrates the tension between human obstinacy and divine purpose. God's hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves to demonstrate His power and to fulfill His plan of deliverance for the Israelites. It is a reminder that God's purposes will prevail, even when human hearts resist.

and he was unwilling
The phrase "he was unwilling" highlights Pharaoh's personal responsibility and stubbornness. Despite the divine hardening, Pharaoh's unwillingness to let the Israelites go reflects his own pride and defiance. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of resisting God's will. In the broader biblical narrative, it is a call to humility and submission to God's authority, recognizing that true freedom comes from aligning with His purposes.

to let them go
This phrase refers to the Israelites, whom God has chosen to deliver from slavery in Egypt. The act of letting them go is not just a physical release but a spiritual liberation, symbolizing God's redemptive power. In the historical context, the Exodus is a foundational event for the Israelites, marking their transition from bondage to freedom and establishing their identity as God's chosen people. This phrase invites reflection on the themes of deliverance and redemption that are central to the Christian faith, encouraging believers to trust in God's power to liberate and transform.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is actively involved in the deliverance of His people from Egypt. His actions demonstrate His sovereignty and power over all creation.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened by the LORD, leading to his refusal to release the Israelites from slavery. Pharaoh represents human pride and resistance to God's will.

3. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. They serve as mediators between God and Pharaoh.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes oppression and the worldly powers that stand against God's purposes.

5. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments on Egypt, demonstrating God's power and authority over creation and false gods. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme throughout these events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God's control over human affairs is absolute. He can use even the resistance of individuals to accomplish His divine purposes.

The Danger of a Hardened Heart
A hardened heart leads to spiritual blindness and resistance to God's will. We must remain open and responsive to God's guidance.

The Role of Human Responsibility
While God is sovereign, humans are still responsible for their actions. Pharaoh's repeated refusals show the consequences of persistent disobedience.

The Power of God's Deliverance
God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Christ. Trust in God's power to save and transform.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands leads to freedom and blessing, while disobedience results in judgment and bondage.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart demonstrate God's sovereignty, and what implications does this have for our understanding of free will?

2. In what ways can we guard against developing a hardened heart in our own spiritual lives?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues connect to the broader account of God's deliverance throughout the Bible?

4. What lessons can we learn from Moses and Aaron's obedience and perseverance in the face of Pharaoh's resistance?

5. How can we apply the principle of God's deliverance in Exodus to our personal struggles and challenges today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 9
Paul discusses God's sovereignty and mercy, using Pharaoh as an example of how God can use even those who resist Him to fulfill His purposes.

1 Samuel 6
The hardening of hearts is also seen in the Philistines, who resist acknowledging God's power despite witnessing His might.

Hebrews 3
The warning against hardening one's heart, using the Israelites' rebellion in the wilderness as a cautionary tale.