Exodus 9:16

But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power to you, and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.

Study Bible

But I have raised you up
This phrase indicates divine sovereignty and purpose. The Hebrew root for "raised" is "עָמַד" (amad), which means to stand or to establish. In the context of Exodus, God is speaking to Pharaoh, asserting that Pharaoh's position and power are not by his own doing but by God's deliberate action. This highlights the biblical theme that God is in control of history and uses even those who oppose Him to fulfill His divine purposes. It serves as a reminder that God can use any situation or person to accomplish His will.

for this very purpose
The phrase underscores intentionality and specificity in God's actions. The Hebrew word for "purpose" is "זֹאת" (zot), which can be translated as "this" or "this thing." It emphasizes that God's actions are not random but are part of a specific plan. In the broader narrative of Exodus, this purpose is to demonstrate God's power and sovereignty over the gods of Egypt and to deliver His people. It reassures believers that God has a purpose for every event in their lives, even when it is not immediately apparent.

that I might display My power in you
Here, the focus is on God's power, "כֹּחִי" (kochi), which means strength or might. The display of power is not just for Pharaoh's sake but for all who witness or hear of it. In the historical context, the plagues of Egypt were a direct challenge to the Egyptian pantheon and a demonstration of Yahweh's supremacy. For believers, this serves as a powerful reminder that God's power is unmatched and that He can intervene in human history in miraculous ways to fulfill His purposes.

and that My name might be proclaimed
The proclamation of God's name, "שְׁמִי" (shemi), is central to His mission. In ancient cultures, a name was more than a label; it represented character and authority. God's name being proclaimed means that His character, power, and authority are made known. This is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God's acts of deliverance and judgment serve to reveal His nature to the world. It encourages believers to live in a way that proclaims God's name through their actions and words.

in all the earth
This phrase expands the scope of God's purpose beyond Egypt to the entire world. The Hebrew word "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) can mean land or earth, indicating that God's actions in Egypt were meant to have global implications. This foreshadows the Great Commission in the New Testament, where the message of God's salvation is to be spread to all nations. It inspires believers to participate in God's mission to make His name known throughout the earth, affirming the universal scope of God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened by God to demonstrate His power and sovereignty.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved and where God displayed His power through the plagues.

4. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments on Egypt, demonstrating God's power and authority over creation.

5. God's Sovereignty
The central theme of this passage, highlighting God's control over nations and rulers to fulfill His purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Purpose
God raises leaders and nations to fulfill His divine purposes, demonstrating His ultimate control over history.

The Display of God's Power
God's actions in history, such as the plagues in Egypt, serve to reveal His power and authority to all people.

Proclaiming God's Name
Believers are called to recognize and proclaim God's greatness, as His works are meant to be a testimony to the world.

The Hardening of Hearts
The hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves as a warning about resisting God's will and the consequences of pride and disobedience.

Trust in God's Plan
Even in difficult circumstances, believers can trust that God is working out His purposes for His glory and our good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues demonstrate God's sovereignty over human rulers and nations?

2. In what ways can we see God's power displayed in our own lives and the world today?

3. How can we actively participate in proclaiming God's name and works in our communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from Pharaoh's hardened heart about the dangers of resisting God's will?

5. How can we find comfort and assurance in God's sovereign plan, especially during challenging times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 9:17
Paul references this verse to illustrate God's sovereign choice and purpose in raising Pharaoh to demonstrate His power.

Isaiah 45:9-12
These verses emphasize God's sovereignty over creation and His purposes, similar to His dealings with Pharaoh.

Psalm 46:10
This verse calls for recognition of God's supremacy, akin to His purpose in displaying His power through Pharaoh.

Daniel 4:34-35
Nebuchadnezzar's acknowledgment of God's eternal dominion parallels the lesson learned through Pharaoh's resistance.

Acts 17:26-27
Paul's sermon at the Areopagus speaks to God's purpose in determining the times and places for nations, reflecting His sovereign plan.