Exodus 7:4 meaning
In this passage, God communicates His plans to Moses regarding his mission to Pharaoh and the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. God informs Moses that Pharaoh's heart will be hardened, leading to a series of signs and wonders that demonstrate God’s supreme authority. This is a pivotal moment as it sets the stage for the eventual liberation of God's people and highlights the conflict between divine will and human obstinance.
The essence of the struggle lies not just in the release of Israel but also in proclaiming God’s sovereignty. God intends for the Egyptians to know that He is the one true God, known as Jehovah. Through the upcoming judgments, both Pharaoh and his nation will be confronted with undeniable manifestations of God’s power. This dual purpose serves not only for the liberation of Israel but also as a testament to the nations that the Lord reigns supreme. The dynamics in this narrative elucidate the theme of divine authority prevailing over human defiance, an enduring motif throughout scripture. This is encapsulated in the verse that illustrates God's judgment upon Egypt and His ultimate plan for Israel's redemption: “But Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine armies, and my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments.” (Exodus 7:4).
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Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 7:1-7 meaning. This passage is the LORD’s response to the latest iteration of Moses using the excuse that he is not eloquent enough to talk to Pharaoh. The LORD accommodates him by restating His appointment of Aaron as his mouthpiece before Pharaoh. Moses will receive the LORD's message and then tell Aaron to convey it to Pharaoh. The purpose of this was to not only deliver Israel from Egyptian slavery but also to demonstrate that He is the sovereign God all creation. The section concludes with a statement of complete obedience by Moses and Aaron and also the ages of the two men when all this took place.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 7:14-25 meaning. Since the account of the plagues upon Egypt begins here in verse 14 and extends to 12:32, it is useful to include a word of introduction.
- Exodus 7:8-13 meaning. Moses’ conflict with Pharaoh begins in verse 8. The first confrontation is in 7:18-23. Here, the LORD instructed Moses and Aaron concerning what to do when Pharaoh asked for a miracle. Moses had Aaron cast down his staff in Pharaoh's presence, which became a serpent. Pharaoh's sorcerers duplicated the miracle, resulting in Pharaoh's heart being hardened. All this happened because the LORD planned it.
- Exodus 24:4-11 meaning. Moses and the elders are called to come before the LORD for worship. The covenant of the LORD is ratified.