Exodus 5:5

Pharaoh also said, "Look, the people of the land are now numerous, and you would be stopping them from their labor."

Study Bible

Pharaoh also said
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, represents the epitome of earthly power and opposition to God's will. His hardened heart is a recurring theme in Exodus, symbolizing resistance to divine authority. This phrase introduces Pharaoh's response to Moses and Aaron's request to let the Israelites go, highlighting his role as an antagonist in the narrative.

Look, the people of the land are now numerous
This acknowledges the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). The Israelites' population growth in Egypt is both a blessing and a perceived threat to Pharaoh, who fears their potential to rise against him (Exodus 1:9-10). This fear leads to their oppression, setting the stage for God's deliverance.

and you would be stopping them from their labor
Pharaoh's concern is economic and political. The Israelites' labor was crucial to Egypt's economy, particularly in construction projects. This phrase underscores the harsh conditions of slavery and the dehumanizing view of the Israelites as mere laborers. It also foreshadows the increasing oppression they will face, which God will ultimately use to demonstrate His power and deliverance. The theme of rest versus labor is significant, as it contrasts with God's command for a Sabbath rest, pointing to spiritual rest found in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the oppressive power that enslaved the Israelites. His heart was hardened against God's command to let the Israelites go.

2. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from slavery. They were sent to Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites.

3. The Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, who were living in Egypt as slaves. They were numerous and oppressed under harsh labor conditions.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved. It symbolizes a place of bondage and oppression in the biblical account.

5. Labor
The forced work imposed on the Israelites by the Egyptians. It represents the physical and spiritual bondage from which God intended to deliver His people.

Teaching Points

God's Awareness of Oppression
Just as God was aware of the Israelites' suffering, He is aware of our struggles today. We can trust that He hears our cries and has a plan for our deliverance.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to listen to God's command is a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice. We must remain open and obedient to His guidance.

The Value of Freedom
The Israelites' desire for freedom from labor reflects the human longing for spiritual freedom. In Christ, we find true liberation from the bondage of sin.

The Power of Multiplication
Despite oppression, the Israelites multiplied. This demonstrates God's ability to bless and grow His people even in difficult circumstances.

The Role of Leadership
Moses and Aaron's courage to confront Pharaoh teaches us the importance of godly leadership and obedience to God's call, even in the face of opposition.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response in Exodus 5:5 reflect the spiritual condition of a hardened heart, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt parallel the spiritual bondage people experience today, and how can we apply the message of deliverance in our lives?

3. How does the multiplication of the Israelites despite their oppression encourage us in times of personal or communal hardship?

4. What can we learn from Moses and Aaron's example about responding to God's call, especially when facing powerful opposition?

5. How does the theme of labor and rest in Exodus 5:5 connect to Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, and how can we find rest in Him amidst our daily struggles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15:13-14
God's prophecy to Abraham about his descendants being enslaved and mistreated in a foreign land, which sets the stage for the events in Exodus.

Exodus 1:7-14
Describes the multiplication of the Israelites in Egypt and the subsequent oppression by the Egyptians, leading to the events in Exodus 5.

Exodus 3:7-10
God's call to Moses, where He expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering and His plan to deliver them.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus' invitation to those who are weary and burdened, offering rest, which parallels God's desire to free the Israelites from their burdens.