Exodus 5:9

Make the work harder on the men so they will be occupied and pay no attention to these lies."

Study Bible

Make the work harder on the men
This phrase reflects Pharaoh's response to Moses and Aaron's request to let the Israelites go to worship God. Pharaoh's decision to increase the workload is a tactic to suppress any thoughts of rebellion or freedom among the Israelites. Historically, the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, forced into hard labor, particularly in brick-making. This increased burden is a form of oppression meant to break their spirit. Theologically, it highlights the spiritual bondage of sin, drawing a parallel to the New Testament where Jesus offers freedom from sin (John 8:34-36).

so they will be occupied
Pharaoh's strategy is to keep the Israelites so busy with their labor that they have no time to consider Moses' message or the possibility of liberation. This reflects a common tactic of oppressive regimes throughout history, where overwork is used to control and subdue populations. In a spiritual sense, it can be seen as a metaphor for how distractions and burdens in life can keep individuals from focusing on spiritual truths and God's promises.

and pay no attention to these lies.”
Pharaoh dismisses Moses' message as lies, showing his disbelief in the God of Israel and his resistance to divine authority. This skepticism is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God's messages are often met with disbelief or hostility by those in power. It also foreshadows the hardening of Pharaoh's heart, a key theme in the Exodus narrative. This phrase can be connected to the New Testament, where Jesus is often met with disbelief and accusations of falsehood (John 8:48-59). It underscores the spiritual battle between truth and deception, a theme that runs throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who opposes Moses and the Israelites. He is a central figure in the account, representing the oppressive force against God's people.

2. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. They confront Pharaoh with God's command to let His people go.

3. The Israelites
The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are enslaved in Egypt. They are the recipients of God's promise of deliverance.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes bondage and oppression in the biblical account.

5. Taskmasters
Egyptian overseers who enforce Pharaoh's harsh labor demands on the Israelites, increasing their burdens.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Oppression
Pharaoh's strategy to increase the Israelites' workload is a tactic to suppress their hope and distract them from God's promises. In our lives, we must recognize when worldly pressures attempt to divert our focus from God's truth.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Pharaoh sought to keep the Israelites from listening to Moses, spiritual forces today aim to keep us from hearing and believing God's Word. We must be vigilant in maintaining our spiritual focus.

God's Faithfulness Amidst Trials
Despite the increased oppression, God's plan for deliverance was still in motion. We can trust that God is working for our good, even when circumstances seem to worsen.

The Power of Lies
Pharaoh refers to Moses' message as "lies," illustrating how truth can be distorted by those in power. We must discern truth from falsehood by grounding ourselves in Scripture.

Endurance in Faith
The Israelites' experience teaches us the importance of perseverance. When faced with trials, we should hold fast to God's promises and seek His strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response to Moses' request reflect the nature of spiritual opposition we might face today?

2. In what ways can increased "work" or busyness in our lives distract us from God's promises and truth?

3. How can we apply Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to find rest amidst the burdens we face?

4. What strategies can we use to discern truth from lies in a world that often distorts God's Word?

5. How can the account of the Israelites' endurance encourage us to remain faithful during our own trials and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 1:11-14
This passage describes the initial oppression of the Israelites in Egypt, setting the stage for the increased burdens in Exodus 5:9.

Exodus 6:9
The Israelites' response to Moses' message of deliverance is one of discouragement due to their harsh labor, directly linking to the increased workload in Exodus 5:9.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him, contrasting the heavy burdens imposed by Pharaoh.

Acts 7:34
Stephen recounts God's awareness of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt, affirming God's concern and plan for deliverance.