Exodus 10:3

So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and told him, "This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: 'How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, so that they may worship Me.

Study Bible

So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh
Moses and Aaron, chosen leaders of the Israelites, are obedient to God's command, demonstrating their faith and courage. The act of going to Pharaoh, the most powerful ruler of the time, signifies their trust in God's protection and authority. Historically, Pharaohs were seen as divine figures in Egypt, making this confrontation a direct challenge to Egyptian religious and political structures.

and told him
The act of speaking to Pharaoh is significant. In the Hebrew context, words are powerful and carry divine authority when spoken by God's chosen messengers. Moses and Aaron are not merely delivering a message; they are acting as conduits of God's will, emphasizing the seriousness and urgency of the divine command.

This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says
The use of "LORD" (YHWH) is crucial, as it is the personal name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). It signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature. "The God of the Hebrews" identifies the specific covenant relationship between God and the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises.

How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me?
This rhetorical question underscores Pharaoh's pride and stubbornness. The Hebrew root for "humble" (עָנָה, anah) implies submission and affliction. God's question is a call to repentance, urging Pharaoh to recognize God's supreme authority. Historically, Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself leads to the continuation of the plagues, demonstrating the consequences of pride.

Let My people go
This command is a recurring theme in the Exodus narrative, emphasizing God's desire for His people's freedom. The phrase reflects God's compassion and justice, as He seeks to liberate the Israelites from bondage. It also foreshadows the ultimate redemption found in Christ, who frees believers from the bondage of sin.

so that they may worship Me
The purpose of liberation is not merely physical freedom but spiritual worship. The Hebrew word for "worship" (עָבַד, avad) also means "to serve," indicating that true freedom is found in serving and worshiping God. This highlights the centrality of worship in the life of God's people and the ultimate goal of their deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is a central figure in the Exodus account.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and spokesperson. He assists Moses in confronting Pharaoh and performing signs.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who stubbornly refuses to release the Israelites, despite the plagues sent by God.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of the Hebrews, who demands the release of His people so they can worship Him.

5. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and from which God is delivering them through Moses and Aaron.

Teaching Points

The Call to Humility
God demands humility from all, including the powerful. Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself before God serves as a warning against pride.

The Sovereignty of God
God's command to Pharaoh underscores His ultimate authority over nations and rulers. Believers are reminded of God's control over all circumstances.

The Purpose of Worship
The demand to let the Israelites go is so they may worship God. Worship is central to the life of God's people and should be prioritized.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Pharaoh's repeated refusals lead to severe consequences for Egypt. Disobedience to God can lead to personal and communal suffering.

God's Patience and Justice
Despite Pharaoh's stubbornness, God gives multiple opportunities for repentance, showing His patience. However, justice is ultimately served.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself before God reflect attitudes we might encounter in today's world?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are humbling ourselves before God in our daily lives?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues illustrate the balance between God's patience and His justice?

4. What are some modern-day "plagues" or challenges that might be calling us to reevaluate our priorities and obedience to God?

5. How can we apply the principle of prioritizing worship in our lives, as seen in God's command to let His people go to worship Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 4:6
This verse speaks about God opposing the proud but giving grace to the humble, which connects to Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself before God.

1 Peter 5:6
Encourages believers to humble themselves under God's mighty hand, which parallels the call for Pharaoh to humble himself.

Proverbs 16:18
Discusses pride leading to destruction, reflecting Pharaoh's eventual downfall due to his pride.