The Stubborn Heart: Understanding Pharaoh’s Resistance in Exodus 7

✨ Executive Summary ✨

Exodus 7, a pivotal chapter, details the initial confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh, marking the beginning of God’s mighty acts to liberate the Israelites. The chapter focuses primarily on God hardening Pharaoh’s heart and turning Aaron’s staff into a serpent, a sign of divine power. God sends Moses to Pharaoh, demanding he release the Israelites, a request Pharaoh vehemently refuses. This refusal initiates the first plague – the turning of the Nile into blood, demonstrating God’s sovereignty over Egypt’s lifeblood and its false deities. This chapter presents a profound lesson on the interplay of free will and divine sovereignty, the consequences of obstinacy, and the power of God to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The message speaks to our own lives, urging us to examine our hearts for stubbornness and embrace God’s transformative power.

Exodus 7 is where the battle truly begins, a spiritual war waged against a recalcitrant Pharaoh and his nation. It’s not simply about freeing a people; it’s about revealing God’s glory and judging the idols of Egypt. Our focus key phrase, “The Stubborn Heart,” encapsulates the central theme of Pharaoh’s resistance and its profound implications for understanding God’s justice and mercy.

📖 Commentary: Exodus 7 – Verse by Verse 📖

Exodus 7:1 (KJV)

And the Lord said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet.

Exodus 7:1 (NKJV)

So the Lord said to Moses: “See, I have made you as God to Pharaoh, and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet.”

This is a powerful statement! God isn’t literally making Moses a god, but endowing him with divine authority and power to deliver His message. The phrase “as God” (אֱלֹהִים, *elohim* in Hebrew) here signifies a representative of God, acting with divine authority. This prefigures Christ, the ultimate representative and image of God. In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, we understand this in light of typology – Moses as a type of Christ. Aaron serves as Moses’ prophet, articulating and executing his directives. The importance of teamwork and delegation in God’s plan is also highlighted. We can apply this to our lives by recognizing God-given talents and roles within the Church and community, utilizing our gifts for His glory. Are we readily accepting the roles God calls us to in our lives, or are we reluctant like Pharaoh to heed God’s requests?

Exodus 7:2 (KJV)

Thou shalt speak all that I command thee: and Aaron thy brother shall speak unto Pharaoh, that he send the children of Israel out of his land.

Exodus 7:2 (NKJV)

“You shall speak all that I command you. And Aaron your brother shall speak to Pharaoh that he send the children of Israel out of his land.

Obedience and faithfulness are paramount. Moses is instructed to speak *all* that God commands, highlighting the importance of unwavering fidelity to God’s word. Aaron’s role reinforces the concept of divine messengers. This echoes throughout scripture. St. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:20, “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” We are called to be representatives of Christ, delivering his message of salvation and love, even when it is difficult. The Fathers teach us to speak the truth in love, holding firm to God’s commands even when confronted with opposition. How often do we compromise God’s message to be more palatable, and how can we better embody the faithfulness of Moses and Aaron in our daily interactions?

Exodus 7:3 (KJV)

And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt.

Exodus 7:3 (NKJV)

“But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt.”

This verse often causes confusion. Did God predestine Pharaoh to be evil? The Coptic Orthodox understanding rejects predestination in this sense. God “hardened” Pharaoh’s heart in that He gave Pharaoh opportunities to repent, and Pharaoh consistently chose to reject them. It’s not an act of divine manipulation, but rather the natural consequence of Pharaoh’s free will choices and repeated resistance to God’s commands. The hardening of Pharaoh’s heart can also be interpreted as God allowing Pharaoh to follow the inclination of his own sinful heart. This demonstrates the gravity of resisting God’s will. As St. Augustine said, *“Deus qui creavit te sine te, non salvabit te sine te.”* (“God who created you without you, will not save you without you.”) (Augustine, Sermon 169.13). Pharaoh’s free will is respected, even as his choices bring about his own downfall. Consider how we allow our own hearts to harden through repeated sin and disobedience. Are we choosing to resist God’s promptings in our lives?

Exodus 7:4 (KJV)

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 (NKJV)

“But Pharaoh will not heed you, so that I may lay My hand on Egypt and bring My armies, My people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments.

God foreknows Pharaoh’s stubbornness, highlighting His divine omniscience. The phrase “lay my hand upon Egypt” signifies God’s judgment. Note that God calls the Israelites “My armies.” This is more than just a liberation; it’s a divine campaign, a spiritual warfare. The “great judgments” refer to the plagues, acts of divine justice against Egypt’s idolatry and oppression. We see the same theme in Revelation. The ten plagues are also a symbol for the judgments that will come to the earth at the end of times. This verse should fill us with awe at God’s power and justice. Are we prepared to face God’s judgment with repentance and a changed heart?

Exodus 7:5 (KJV)

And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them.

Exodus 7:5 (NKJV)

“And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I stretch out My hand on Egypt and bring out the children of Israel from among them.”

The ultimate purpose of these events is the revelation of God’s identity and power. “The Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord” is the key. God’s actions are not arbitrary; they are intended to demonstrate His sovereignty and draw people to Him. This echoes the Great Commission: to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). Our lives should be living testimonies to God’s power and love, so that others may come to know Him. Are our actions reflecting the glory of God, or are they obscuring His presence?

Exodus 7:6 (KJV)

And Moses and Aaron did as the Lord commanded them, so did they.

Exodus 7:6 (NKJV)

Then Moses and Aaron did so; as the Lord commanded them, so they did.

This simple statement reinforces the importance of obedience. Moses and Aaron’s unwavering obedience serves as an example for us. Despite knowing the impending conflict and the stubbornness of Pharaoh, they follow God’s instructions exactly. We, too, must strive for this level of obedience in our daily lives, trusting in God’s wisdom even when we don’t fully understand His plans. It’s through our obedience that God’s will is accomplished. Do we obey God fully, or do we pick and choose what we want to follow?

Exodus 7:7 (KJV)

And Moses was fourscore years old, and Aaron fourscore and three years old, when they spake unto Pharaoh.

Exodus 7:7 (NKJV)

Moses was eighty years old and Aaron eighty-three years old when they spoke to Pharaoh.

The ages of Moses and Aaron are significant. They weren’t young, inexperienced men, but seasoned individuals who had lived through much. This emphasizes that it’s never too late to answer God’s call. Age is not a barrier to serving God. Think of St. Anthony the Great, who embarked on his monastic journey later in life. We are never too old to be instruments of God’s grace. Are we using our experience and wisdom to serve God, or are we letting age be an excuse for inaction?

Exodus 7:8 (KJV)

And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,

Exodus 7:8 (NKJV)

Then the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying,

This is another point where the Lord speaks to Moses and Aaron. God continues to direct them, solidifying their mission with continued communication.

Exodus 7:9 (KJV)

When Pharaoh shall speak unto you, saying, Shew a miracle for you: then thou shalt say unto Aaron, Take thy rod, and cast it before Pharaoh, and it shall become a serpent.

Exodus 7:9 (NKJV)

“When Pharaoh speaks to you, saying, ‘Show a miracle for yourselves,’ then you shall take your rod and cast it before Pharaoh, and it will become a serpent.”

God anticipates Pharaoh’s demand for a sign. The transformation of Aaron’s rod into a serpent is a demonstration of God’s power, challenging the power of Pharaoh and the Egyptian deities. The serpent, often associated with evil, is here transformed by God’s power, demonstrating His control even over the forces of darkness. This is a sign, a visible manifestation of God’s authority and the authenticity of Moses and Aaron’s message. How are we using the gifts God has given us to demonstrate His power and truth to the world?

Exodus 7:10 (KJV)

And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and they did so as the Lord had commanded: and Aaron cast down his rod before Pharaoh, and before his servants, and it became a serpent.

Exodus 7:10 (NKJV)

So Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh, and they did just as the Lord commanded. And Aaron cast down his rod before Pharaoh and before his servants, and it became a serpent.

Again, obedience is emphasized. Moses and Aaron carry out God’s instructions precisely. This simple act of obedience is crucial. Aaron throwing down his rod is a symbolic act of relinquishing earthly power and relying on divine power. Are we willing to relinquish our own control and surrender to God’s will, even when it seems foolish or risky?

Exodus 7:11 (KJV)

Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.

Exodus 7:11 (NKJV)

But Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers; so the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.

Pharaoh, instead of humbling himself before God, seeks validation from his own wise men and sorcerers. This highlights the futility of relying on human power and wisdom in the face of divine authority. The magicians were able to duplicate the miracle through demonic power. This highlights the ever present power of Satan to mimic the works of God, but this is not equal power, but a deceitful, lesser power. It is a dark foreshadowing of the end times, with miracles and signs that will fool many. It is important to always test the spirits and be wary of false teachers. How do we ensure that we are discerning true divine power from counterfeit manifestations?

Exodus 7:12 (KJV)

For they cast down every man his rod, and they became serpents: but Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods.

Exodus 7:12 (NKJV)

For every man threw down his rod, and they became serpents. But Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods.

This is a critical moment. While the magicians could replicate the initial miracle, Aaron’s rod *swallowed* their rods, demonstrating the supremacy of God’s power. This isn’t merely a contest of magic; it’s a demonstration of divine authority over demonic power. The imagery of swallowing is significant – God’s power consumes and overcomes all opposition. This speaks to the ultimate victory of good over evil, of Christ over Satan. In what areas of our lives do we need God’s power to “swallow up” the negative influences that are holding us back?

Exodus 7:13 (KJV)

And he hardened Pharaoh’s heart, that he hearkened not unto them; as the Lord had said.

Exodus 7:13 (NKJV)

And Pharaoh’s heart grew hard; neither did he heed them, as the Lord had said.

Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened, despite witnessing the clear demonstration of God’s power. This reinforces the concept of free will and the consequences of resisting God’s grace. Pharaoh’s choices are his own. His ego is too large, his pride too encompassing to submit to any power beyond himself. The Lord, knowing Pharaoh would not heed the call, is not the reason that his heart is hardened, it is Pharaohs own volition. We should be wary of becoming like Pharaoh, stubbornly resisting God’s call to change. This shows the dangers of letting pride and ego control our decisions. What areas of our hearts are hardened, and how can we soften them to receive God’s grace?

Exodus 7:14 (KJV)

And the Lord said unto Moses, Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, he refuseth to let the people go.

Exodus 7:14 (NKJV)

So the Lord said to Moses: “Pharaoh’s heart is hard; he refuses to let the people go.

God reiterates Pharaoh’s stubbornness. This verse emphasizes that Pharaoh’s refusal is a deliberate act of defiance. The phrase “he refuseth to let the people go” is a direct challenge to God’s authority. How many opportunities will we be given? We are given a life to repent and draw closer to the lord. Do we use this life to serve him and his community, or do we turn away and deny him?

Exodus 7:15 (KJV)

Get thee unto Pharaoh in the morning; lo, he goeth out unto the water; and thou shalt stand by the river’s brink against he come; and the rod which was turned to a serpent shalt thou take in thine hand.

Exodus 7:15 (NKJV)

“Go to Pharaoh in the morning, when he goes out to the water, and you shall stand by the river’s bank to meet him; and the rod which was turned to a serpent you shall take in your hand.

God gives Moses specific instructions on where and when to confront Pharaoh. Pharaoh’s morning ritual at the river suggests a religious practice, perhaps a worship of the Nile. God directs Moses to meet him at the very place where he might be performing a idolatrous act. This emphasizes God’s challenge to Pharaoh’s false gods. The river Nile was considered a god and the life source for Egyptians. How we view our own life source (job, friends, hobbies, money) and if we value it above God?

Exodus 7:16 (KJV)

And thou shalt say unto him, The Lord God of the Hebrews hath sent me unto thee, saying, Let my people go, that they may serve me in the wilderness: and, behold, hitherto thou wouldest not hear.

Exodus 7:16 (NKJV)

“And you shall say to him, ‘The Lord God of the Hebrews has sent me to you, saying, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me in the wilderness”; but until now you have not been willing to hear!

Moses is to deliver God’s message again, clearly and directly: “Let my people go, that they may serve me.” This is not merely about physical liberation; it’s about spiritual freedom and the opportunity to worship God. It reemphasizes what has been said and reminds us that often, when God speaks to us, we refuse to listen. But God is persistent and does not give up. The Lord has given us free will, but do we use it for good or ill?

Exodus 7:17 (KJV)

Thus saith the Lord, In this thou shalt know that I am the Lord: behold, I will smite with the rod that is in mine hand upon the waters which are in the river, and they shall be turned to blood.

Exodus 7:17 (NKJV)

“Thus says the Lord: ‘In this you shall know that I am the Lord. Behold, I will strike the waters which are in the river with the rod that is in my hand, and they shall be turned to blood.

This is a direct statement of purpose: “In this thou shalt know that I am the Lord.” The turning of the Nile into blood is a sign of God’s power and a judgment against Egypt’s false gods, particularly the Nile. It is not only a physical affliction but also a symbolic attack on their beliefs. The rod in Moses’ hand becomes an instrument of divine power, demonstrating that even ordinary objects can be used for God’s glory. God tells the truth and keeps his promises. How do we ensure that we know and follow the Lord?

Exodus 7:18 (KJV)

And the fish that is in the river shall die, and the river shall stink, and the Egyptians shall loathe to drink of the water of the river.

Exodus 7:18 (NKJV)

“The fish that are in the river shall die, the river shall stink, and the Egyptians will loathe to drink the water of the river.

The consequences of the first plague are severe. The death of the fish and the pollution of the Nile would have had a devastating impact on the Egyptian economy and society. The fact that the Egyptians would be disgusted by it emphasizes the all-encompassing effect of God’s judgment. This is the impact of sin on our souls as well. It causes the death of our inner spirit, a foul smell, and a loathing of God’s grace. The river provided fresh water for the Egyptians so this was a direct assault on their god.

Exodus 7:19 (KJV)

And the Lord spake unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Take thy rod, and stretch out thine hand upon the waters of Egypt, upon their streams, upon their rivers, upon their ponds, and upon all their pools of water, that they may become blood; and that there may be blood throughout all the land of Egypt, both in vessels of wood, and in vessels of stone.

Exodus 7:19 (NKJV)

Then the Lord spoke to Moses, “Say to Aaron, ‘Take your rod and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt, over their streams, over their rivers, over their ponds, and over all their pools of water, that they may become blood, and that there may be blood throughout all the land of Egypt, both in buckets of wood and pitchers of stone.’ ”

God commands Aaron to extend the plague to all the waters of Egypt, demonstrating its totality. No source of water is spared, emphasizing the all-encompassing judgment of God. The mention of “vessels of wood, and in vessels of stone” highlights the thoroughness of the plague. God is a God of justice and vengeance. Are we doing all we can to purify our hearts and minds from sin?

Exodus 7:20 (KJV)

And Moses and Aaron did so, as the Lord commanded; and he lifted up the rod, and smote the waters that were in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh, and in the sight of his servants; and all the waters that were in the river were turned to blood.

Exodus 7:20 (NKJV)

And Moses and Aaron did so, just as the Lord commanded. So he lifted up the rod and struck the waters that were in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants; and all the waters that were in the river were turned to blood.

Again, obedience is emphasized. Moses and Aaron faithfully execute God’s command. The miracle is performed in full view of Pharaoh and his servants, leaving no room for doubt about its source. The waters turning to blood would have been a terrifying sight. It showcases the importance of following commands and living in obedience.

Exodus 7:21 (KJV)

And the fish that was in the river died; and the river stank, and the Egyptians could not drink of the water of the river; and there was blood throughout all the land of Egypt.

Exodus 7:21 (NKJV)

The fish that was in the river died, and the river stank, and the Egyptians could not drink the water of the river; so there was blood throughout all the land of Egypt.

This verse describes the devastating consequences of the first plague. The death of the fish, the foul smell, and the inability to drink the water would have caused immense suffering and hardship for the Egyptians. This plague was not merely a nuisance; it was a serious ecological and economic disaster, showing God’s power over the natural world. The Nile also affected the water table of the country. In modern times Egypt has had to work to keep their water ways safe due to pollution. Using a high-quality WordPress hosting service can assist in publishing research for ecological safety. What are the consequences of our sin on others around us?

Exodus 7:22 (KJV)

And the magicians of Egypt did so with their enchantments: and Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, neither did he hearken unto them; as the Lord had said.

Exodus 7:22 (NKJV)

Then the magicians of Egypt did so with their enchantments; and Pharaoh’s heart grew hard, and he did not heed them, as the Lord had said.

The magicians are able to duplicate the plague, albeit on a limited scale, which only serves to harden Pharaoh’s heart further. He chooses to trust in their limited abilities rather than acknowledging the power of God. It is important to be able to discern that the devils work is only mimicry and they are just a shadow of the true Lord. We must be aware so we are not tricked by evil.

Exodus 7:23 (KJV)

And Pharaoh turned and went into his house, neither did he set his heart to this also.

Exodus 7:23 (NKJV)

Then Pharaoh turned and went into his house; neither did he set his heart to this either.

Pharaoh’s reaction is one of indifference and apathy. He refuses to acknowledge the significance of the plague or to humble himself before God. He “set not his heart to this” – he deliberately ignored the warning. This demonstrates his complete lack of spiritual understanding and his stubborn resistance to God’s will. How do we choose to look away and refuse to see the truth when it challenges our comfort or power?

Exodus 7:24 (KJV)

And all the Egyptians digged round about the river for water to drink; for they could not drink of the water of the river.

Exodus 7:24 (NKJV)

And all the Egyptians dug all around the river for water to drink, for they could not drink the water of the river.

The Egyptians are forced to seek alternative sources of water, highlighting the severity of the plague. This illustrates the practical consequences of Pharaoh’s stubbornness and the suffering it inflicted on his people. They search “round about the river”, but how far did they search and would it be enough? We must always be sure that the source we are seeking water, and God’s blessings, is from the Lord alone.

Exodus 7:25 (KJV)

And seven days were fulfilled, after that the Lord had smitten the river.

Exodus 7:25 (NKJV)

And seven days passed after the Lord struck the river.

Seven days pass after the plague of blood. This period allows time for Pharaoh to repent, but he remains unyielding. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in Scripture. This verse highlights the patience of God, giving Pharaoh ample opportunity to change his heart. Seven days is a week and now a week has passed. We have to ask ourselves, what we do with our time and are we moving closer to the Lord or away?

💡 Key Reflections 💡

Here are some key teachings we can glean from Exodus 7:

God’s Sovereignty: God’s power is absolute and He is sovereign over all creation, including rulers and nations.
The Consequences of Stubbornness: Pharaoh’s stubborn refusal to obey God led to great suffering for his people, a powerful lesson about the dangers of pride and resistance to God’s will.
The Importance of Obedience: Moses and Aaron’s unwavering obedience to God is a model for us to follow, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God’s guidance.
Divine Judgment: The plagues serve as a reminder of God’s justice and His judgment against sin and oppression.
The Revelation of God’s Identity: God reveals Himself through His actions, demonstrating His power and His desire to be known.
God’s Patience: Even in judgment, God shows patience, giving Pharaoh opportunities to repent.

❓ FAQ ❓

Let’s consider some common questions about Exodus 7:

Q: Why did God harden Pharaoh’s heart?
A: God did not predestine Pharaoh to be evil. Rather, Pharaoh repeatedly chose to resist God’s commands, and God allowed him to follow the inclination of his own hardened heart. It was not an act of divine manipulation but the consequence of Pharaoh’s free will choices.

Q: What is the significance of the Nile turning to blood?
A: The Nile was the lifeblood of Egypt, and its transformation into blood was a direct challenge to Egypt’s false gods, particularly the Nile god Hapi. It was also a severe ecological and economic disaster, demonstrating God’s power over creation.

Q: Why did God send plagues instead of directly liberating the Israelites?
A: The plagues were not just about liberating the Israelites; they were also about revealing God’s glory and judging the idols of Egypt. Each plague targeted specific aspects of Egyptian society and religion, demonstrating God’s superiority over their false gods.

Q: How does Exodus 7 apply to my life today?
A: Exodus 7 teaches us about the dangers of stubbornness, the importance of obedience, and the power of God to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. We can examine our own hearts for areas where we are resisting God’s will and choose to submit to His authority.

🎯 Conclusion 🎯

Exodus 7 paints a vivid picture of divine authority clashing with human stubbornness. The Stubborn Heart of Pharaoh is a stark reminder of the consequences of resisting God’s will. It underscores the importance of obedience, the sovereignty of God, and the reality of divine judgment. As we reflect on this chapter, let us examine our own hearts, asking ourselves if we are allowing pride or self-will to harden us to God’s leading. May we choose humility, obedience, and a willingness to surrender to His transforming power, so that we may know Him and walk in His ways. The lessons of Exodus 7 are not just ancient history; they are timeless truths that speak to our lives today, urging us to choose God over self and to embrace His love and guidance.

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Explore the spiritual depths of Exodus 7: Pharaoh’s stubborn heart, the plague of blood, and God’s ultimate sovereignty. Understand the lessons for your life today.

Exodus 7 – Moses and Aaron Before Pharaoh: The First Plague