Exodus 10:27

But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he was unwilling to let them go.

Study Bible

But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart
This phrase indicates divine intervention in Pharaoh's decision-making process. In the broader biblical context, this hardening of the heart is mentioned multiple times throughout the Exodus narrative. It serves to demonstrate God's sovereignty and power over human rulers and events. Theologically, it raises questions about free will and divine justice, but it is often interpreted as God allowing Pharaoh to persist in his own stubbornness, which he had already demonstrated. This hardening is part of God's plan to display His power and to fulfill His promise to Abraham about delivering his descendants from bondage (Genesis 15:13-14). It also foreshadows the hardening of hearts in the New Testament, where people reject Jesus despite witnessing His miracles (John 12:37-40).

and he was unwilling to let them go
Pharaoh's unwillingness to release the Israelites is a central theme in the Exodus story. This resistance sets the stage for the plagues that God sends upon Egypt, each demonstrating His supremacy over the Egyptian gods and Pharaoh himself, who was considered a deity. Historically, Egypt was a powerful empire, and the Israelites were a significant labor force, making Pharaoh's reluctance understandable from a human perspective. Culturally, the Egyptians viewed the Hebrews as inferior, which contributed to Pharaoh's dismissive attitude. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of liberation from bondage, which is a type of the spiritual liberation offered through Jesus Christ. Just as Pharaoh's refusal led to the eventual deliverance of Israel, the resistance of sin and death is overcome through Christ's sacrifice, offering freedom to all who believe (Romans 6:17-18).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is actively involved in the deliverance of His people from Egypt. His actions demonstrate His sovereignty and power over all creation.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened by the LORD, leading to his refusal to release the Israelites from slavery. Pharaoh represents human pride and resistance to God's will.

3. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. They serve as mediators between God and Pharaoh.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes oppression and the worldly powers that stand against God's purposes.

5. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments on Egypt, demonstrating God's power and authority over creation and false gods. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme throughout these events.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God's control over human affairs is absolute. He can use even the resistance of individuals to accomplish His divine purposes.

The Danger of a Hardened Heart
A hardened heart leads to spiritual blindness and resistance to God's will. We must remain open and responsive to God's guidance.

The Role of Human Responsibility
While God is sovereign, humans are still responsible for their actions. Pharaoh's repeated refusals show the consequences of persistent disobedience.

The Power of God's Deliverance
God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Christ. Trust in God's power to save and transform.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands leads to freedom and blessing, while disobedience results in judgment and bondage.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart demonstrate God's sovereignty, and what implications does this have for our understanding of free will?

2. In what ways can we guard against developing a hardened heart in our own spiritual lives?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues connect to the broader account of God's deliverance throughout the Bible?

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

5. How can we apply the principle of God's deliverance in Exodus to our personal struggles and challenges today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 9
Paul discusses God's sovereignty and mercy, using Pharaoh as an example of how God can use even those who resist Him to fulfill His purposes.

1 Samuel 6
The hardening of hearts is also seen in the Philistines, who resist acknowledging God's power despite witnessing His might.

Hebrews 3
The warning against hardening one's heart, using the Israelites' rebellion in the wilderness as a cautionary tale.