Exodus 7:22

But the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their magic arts. So Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said.

Study Bible

But the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their magic arts.
The magicians of Egypt, likely priests of the Egyptian gods, were skilled in occult practices and were able to replicate the miracle of turning water into blood. This reflects the spiritual battle between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt. The magicians' ability to mimic the miracle suggests the presence of real spiritual power, though inferior to God's. This event highlights the theme of counterfeit miracles, which is echoed in the New Testament (2 Thessalonians 2:9) where false signs and wonders are mentioned. The magicians' actions also demonstrate the hardness of Pharaoh's heart, as he relied on them to validate his resistance to God's command.

So Pharaoh’s heart was hardened,
The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a central theme in the Exodus narrative. It illustrates the tension between divine sovereignty and human free will. While God predicted and allowed Pharaoh's heart to harden, Pharaoh himself chose to resist God's command. This hardening serves as a warning against persistent unbelief and rebellion against God. Theologically, it underscores the idea that God can use even the obstinacy of individuals to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Romans 9:17-18.

and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron,
Pharaoh's refusal to listen to Moses and Aaron is indicative of his pride and stubbornness. Despite witnessing a miraculous sign, Pharaoh's heart remained closed to the message of God. This refusal is a pattern seen throughout the plagues, where Pharaoh's resistance grows stronger. It serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and openness to God's word. The role of Moses and Aaron as God's messengers parallels the prophetic tradition, where prophets often faced rejection despite delivering God's truth.

just as the LORD had said.
This phrase emphasizes the fulfillment of God's word and His foreknowledge. God had already informed Moses that Pharaoh would not easily let the Israelites go (Exodus 4:21). This assurance to Moses highlights God's control over the situation and His ultimate plan for deliverance. It reassures believers of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promises, as seen throughout Scripture (Isaiah 46:10). The phrase also underscores the reliability of God's word, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against the Israelites and God’s commands.

2. Moses and Aaron
God’s chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

3. Egyptian Magicians
Practitioners of secret arts who replicated the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron.

4. The Nile River
The site of the first plague where water was turned into blood, demonstrating God’s power over Egyptian deities.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who demonstrates His sovereignty and power through the plagues.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Human Power Against God
The magicians’ ability to replicate the miracles only served to harden Pharaoh’s heart further, illustrating that human power and deception cannot stand against God’s ultimate authority.

The Hardening of the Heart
Pharaoh’s refusal to listen, despite witnessing God’s power, serves as a warning about the dangers of a hardened heart. It reminds believers to remain open and responsive to God’s voice.

God’s Sovereignty and Purpose
The events in Egypt demonstrate God’s control over all circumstances. Even when opposition arises, God’s purposes will prevail, encouraging believers to trust in His plan.

The Role of Signs and Wonders
While signs can demonstrate God’s power, they are not always sufficient to change a hardened heart. True transformation comes from a willing submission to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of Pharaoh to the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron reflect the condition of his heart, and what can we learn from this about our own responses to God’s work in our lives?

2. In what ways do we see the futility of human power and wisdom in today’s world, and how can we ensure that we rely on God’s power instead?

3. How does the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart serve as a warning to us about the dangers of resisting God’s will, and what steps can we take to keep our hearts soft and receptive?

4. What are some modern-day "magicians" or deceptive powers that attempt to replicate or counteract God’s work, and how can we discern and stand firm against them?

5. How can the account of the plagues and the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart encourage us to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when we face opposition or challenges in our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 8:7
The magicians replicate the plague of frogs, further hardening Pharaoh’s heart.

2 Timothy 3:8
Paul references Jannes and Jambres, who opposed Moses, highlighting the futility of resisting God’s truth.

Revelation 16:14
Speaks of demonic spirits performing signs, drawing a parallel to the deceptive power of the magicians.

Romans 9:17-18
Discusses God’s sovereignty in hardening Pharaoh’s heart to display His power and proclaim His name.