Exodus 10:28

"Depart from me!" Pharaoh said to Moses. "Make sure you never see my face again, for on the day you see my face, you will die."

Study Bible

Leave my presence
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the plagues. The Hebrew word for "leave" is "yalak," which often implies a command to go forth or depart. Pharaoh's command is not just a dismissal but a forceful rejection of Moses and the God he represents. Historically, this reflects the hardened heart of Pharaoh, who, despite witnessing God's power, chooses to resist. This moment underscores the spiritual blindness and pride that can lead one to reject divine truth.

Pharaoh said to Moses
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, is a central figure in the Exodus narrative. His interactions with Moses highlight the conflict between earthly power and divine authority. Moses, as God's chosen leader, stands as a representative of God's will. The dialogue between Pharaoh and Moses is not just a conversation but a confrontation between two opposing forces: the stubbornness of human authority and the persistence of divine command.

Make sure you do not see my face again
The phrase "see my face" is a Hebrew idiom that implies an audience or meeting. In ancient Near Eastern culture, seeing the face of a king was a privilege and a sign of favor. Pharaoh's command is a declaration of severance, indicating that Moses is no longer welcome in his court. This reflects Pharaoh's increasing isolation and the breakdown of communication between him and God's messenger.

for on the day you see my face, you will die
This threat of death is a grave pronouncement. In the Hebrew context, the word "die" (muwth) is often used to signify not just physical death but also separation from life and blessing. Pharaoh's words are a final attempt to assert his power over Moses, yet they ironically foreshadow the impending judgment on Egypt. This statement highlights the futility of resisting God's will, as Pharaoh's threats cannot thwart the divine plan. Historically, this moment sets the stage for the final plague and the ultimate liberation of the Israelites, demonstrating that God's purposes will prevail despite human opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is hardened in his heart against God’s commands delivered through Moses. He represents the obstinate resistance to God's will.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is the mediator between God and Pharaoh.

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

4. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. This verse occurs after the ninth plague, darkness.

5. The Face of Pharaoh
Represents authority and power in the Egyptian context. Pharaoh’s refusal to see Moses again signifies a final rejection of God’s message.

Teaching Points

The Danger of a Hardened Heart
Pharaoh’s refusal to heed God’s warnings serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hardening one’s heart against God’s will. Believers are encouraged to remain open and responsive to God’s guidance.

God’s Sovereignty and Judgment
This passage highlights God’s ultimate authority over earthly powers. It reassures believers that God’s purposes will prevail, even when faced with opposition.

The Cost of Rebellion
Pharaoh’s declaration that Moses will die if he sees his face again underscores the cost of rebellion against God. It serves as a reminder that rejecting God’s commands can lead to spiritual death.

The Role of a Mediator
Moses’ role as a mediator between God and Pharaoh points to the importance of intercessors in our spiritual lives. It foreshadows Christ’s role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh’s response to Moses reflect the condition of his heart, and what can we learn about the dangers of spiritual stubbornness?

2. In what ways does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues demonstrate God’s sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our faith during challenging times?

3. How can we apply the lessons from Pharaoh’s hardened heart to our own lives to ensure we remain receptive to God’s voice?

4. What parallels can we draw between Moses’ role as a mediator and Jesus’ role in the New Testament, and how does this shape our understanding of intercession?

5. How does the account of Exodus 10:28 encourage us to respond to God’s warnings and guidance in our personal lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:19-20
God foretells that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand, connecting to the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart.

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

Hebrews 3:7-8
Warns believers not to harden their hearts as in the rebellion, drawing a parallel to Pharaoh’s hardened heart.