Exodus 8:15

When Pharaoh saw that there was relief, however, he hardened his heart and would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said.

Study Bible

When Pharaoh saw that there was relief
Pharaoh's observation of relief refers to the cessation of the plague of frogs, which was the second plague sent upon Egypt. This moment highlights Pharaoh's tendency to respond to immediate circumstances rather than genuine repentance or acknowledgment of God's power. The relief from the plague was temporary, yet Pharaoh's reaction was to revert to his previous stance, demonstrating a pattern of behavior that would continue throughout the plagues.

however, he hardened his heart
The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme in the Exodus narrative. It illustrates the spiritual and moral obstinacy that Pharaoh exhibited despite witnessing God's power. This hardening can be seen as both a personal choice and a divine judgment, as God had foretold this response. Theologically, it raises questions about free will and divine sovereignty, showing how God can use human decisions to fulfill His purposes.

and would not listen to Moses and Aaron
Pharaoh's refusal to listen to Moses and Aaron signifies his rejection of God's messengers and, by extension, God's commands. Moses and Aaron served as God's appointed leaders to deliver His message to Pharaoh. This refusal is emblematic of a broader resistance to divine authority, which is a central theme in the narrative of the Exodus. It also foreshadows the continued resistance Pharaoh would show, leading to further plagues.

just as the LORD had said
This phrase underscores the fulfillment of God's word and His foreknowledge of events. It reflects the prophetic nature of God's declarations to Moses before the plagues began, where God informed Moses that Pharaoh would not easily let the Israelites go. This assurance of God's sovereignty and the reliability of His word is a key element in the narrative, reinforcing the idea that God's plans are unthwarted by human resistance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is central to the account of the Exodus. His heart is repeatedly hardened, leading to the continued enslavement of the Israelites.

2. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. They act as God's messengers and perform signs and wonders.

3. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme throughout these events.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It serves as the backdrop for the confrontation between God’s will and Pharaoh’s resistance.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty through the plagues and the eventual liberation of His people.

Teaching Points

The Danger of a Hardened Heart
Pharaoh's repeated hardening of his heart serves as a warning against resisting God's will. Believers are encouraged to remain open and responsive to God's guidance.

God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
While God is sovereign and His plans will prevail, humans are still responsible for their responses to His commands. Pharaoh's choices led to his downfall, illustrating the consequences of resisting God.

The Importance of Obedience
The account highlights the importance of obedience to God. Moses and Aaron's faithfulness contrasts with Pharaoh's disobedience, showing the blessings of aligning with God's will.

Recognizing God's Timing
Pharaoh's temporary relief led to a false sense of security. Believers should recognize that God's timing and purposes are perfect, even when immediate relief is not apparent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response to the relief from the plagues reflect a common human tendency when facing trials?

2. In what ways can believers guard against hardening their hearts in response to God's commands?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in Pharaoh's account, provide comfort or challenge in your personal faith journey?

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

5. How can we apply the principle of recognizing God's timing in our own lives, especially when we experience temporary relief from challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4:21
God foretells that He will harden Pharaoh's heart, showing His sovereignty over the events that unfold.

Romans 9:17-18
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereign choice and mercy, emphasizing that God can harden whom He wills.

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