Exodus 7:11

But Pharaoh called the wise men and sorcerers and magicians of Egypt, and they also did the same things by their magic arts.

Study Bible

But Pharaoh called the wise men and sorcerers
Pharaoh's reliance on wise men and sorcerers reflects the Egyptian belief in magic and the supernatural. These individuals were considered experts in interpreting dreams, performing rituals, and wielding magical powers. The presence of such figures in Pharaoh's court underscores the cultural and religious context of ancient Egypt, where magic was intertwined with daily life and governance. This reliance on human wisdom and sorcery contrasts with the divine power of God, setting the stage for the confrontation between God's authority and human attempts to replicate it.

and magicians of Egypt
The magicians of Egypt were part of a class of priests who were skilled in the occult and practiced various forms of magic. Their role was significant in maintaining the religious and cultural traditions of Egypt. Historically, Egyptian magicians were known for their ability to perform illusions and manipulate perceptions, which they used to maintain their influence and authority. This phrase highlights the spiritual battle between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt, as represented by these magicians.

and they also did the same things by their magic arts
The magicians' ability to replicate the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron suggests that they possessed some level of supernatural power, though it was limited and ultimately inferior to God's power. This phrase illustrates the theme of counterfeit miracles, where human or demonic forces attempt to mimic divine acts. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual deception that can occur when people rely on magic and sorcery instead of seeking the true power of God. This event foreshadows the eventual triumph of God's power over the false gods of Egypt, as seen in the subsequent plagues and the Exodus narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is resistant to God's command to let the Israelites go. His heart is hardened, and he seeks to oppose Moses and Aaron.

2. Wise Men and Sorcerers
These are the Egyptian magicians and practitioners of the occult arts who are called upon by Pharaoh to replicate the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron.

3. Magicians of Egypt
Skilled in the magical arts, these individuals represent the spiritual opposition to God's power, attempting to mimic the divine signs given through Moses and Aaron.

4. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. They are instruments of God's power and authority.

5. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, representing a place of oppression and spiritual darkness in contrast to the promised land of freedom and divine blessing.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Opposing God
The magicians' attempts to replicate God's miracles highlight the ultimate futility of opposing God's will. No human power can stand against the divine.

Discernment of True Power
Believers are called to discern between the true power of God and counterfeit spiritual forces. This requires a deep understanding of Scripture and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

The Hardening of the Heart
Pharaoh's reliance on his magicians reflects a hardened heart that refuses to acknowledge God's authority. We must guard against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

Spiritual Warfare
The confrontation between Moses and the magicians is a reminder of the spiritual warfare believers face. We must be equipped with the armor of God to stand firm against spiritual deception.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the magicians' efforts, God's plan for the Israelites' deliverance is unstoppable. This reassures us of God's sovereignty in our lives and His ultimate control over all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's reliance on his magicians reflect a common human tendency to seek control through worldly means rather than trusting in God?

2. In what ways can we discern between true spiritual power and counterfeit forces in our own lives?

3. How does the account of the magicians in Exodus 7:11 encourage us to respond to spiritual opposition today?

4. What are some areas in our lives where we might be hardening our hearts to God's voice, and how can we remain open to His leading?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the account of Exodus 7:11 provide comfort and assurance in the face of life's challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Timothy 3:8
This passage references Jannes and Jambres, who are traditionally understood to be among the magicians opposing Moses. It highlights the theme of resisting the truth and the futility of opposing God's power.

Acts 8:9-24
The account of Simon the Sorcerer, who attempts to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, parallels the Egyptian magicians' attempts to replicate God's miracles through their own means.

1 Kings 18:20-40
Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel serves as another example of God's power triumphing over false spiritual forces.