Exodus 7:4

Pharaoh will not listen to you. Then I will lay My hand on Egypt, and by mighty acts of judgment I will bring the divisions of My people the Israelites out of the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

Pharaoh will not listen to you.
This phrase highlights Pharaoh's hardened heart, a recurring theme in the Exodus narrative. Pharaoh's refusal to listen is both a demonstration of his own stubbornness and a fulfillment of God's forewarning to Moses (Exodus 3:19). This resistance sets the stage for God's power to be displayed through the plagues. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a complex interplay of divine sovereignty and human free will, as seen in Romans 9:17-18, where Paul discusses God's purpose in raising Pharaoh to demonstrate His power.

Then I will lay My hand on Egypt,
The phrase "lay My hand" signifies God's direct intervention and power. In biblical terms, God's hand often represents His strength and authority (Isaiah 41:10). This intervention is not just punitive but also redemptive, as it leads to the liberation of the Israelites. The plagues that follow are a demonstration of God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods, each plague targeting specific deities and aspects of Egyptian life, revealing the impotence of their gods compared to Yahweh.

and by mighty acts of judgment
The "mighty acts of judgment" refer to the ten plagues that God brings upon Egypt. These acts serve multiple purposes: they are judgments against Egypt for their oppression of the Israelites, they reveal God's power and sovereignty, and they are a means of compelling Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Each plague escalates in severity, demonstrating God's control over nature and His ability to protect His people, as seen in the distinction made between the Egyptians and the Israelites during the plagues (Exodus 8:22-23).

I will bring the divisions of My people the Israelites out of the land of Egypt.
This phrase emphasizes God's covenant relationship with Israel, referring to them as "My people." The term "divisions" suggests an organized, structured departure, akin to a military formation, highlighting the order and purpose in God's deliverance. This exodus is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14) and a pivotal moment in Israel's history, symbolizing salvation and foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. The exodus is frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a testament to God's faithfulness and power (Deuteronomy 6:21-23, Psalm 136:10-12).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, representing opposition to God's will.

2. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, symbolizing bondage and oppression.

4. Israelites
God's chosen people, enslaved in Egypt, whom God plans to deliver.

5. Great Acts of Judgment
The plagues and miracles God will perform to demonstrate His power and compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
God's plan will prevail despite human resistance. Pharaoh's hardened heart serves to magnify God's power and purpose.

Deliverance from Bondage
Just as God delivered the Israelites from physical slavery, He offers spiritual deliverance from sin through Jesus Christ.

Faith in God's Promises
Believers are called to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem insurmountable, as Moses and Aaron did.

Judgment and Mercy
God's acts of judgment serve a dual purpose: to demonstrate His power and to extend mercy to those who turn to Him.

Obedience to God's Call
Moses and Aaron's obedience in confronting Pharaoh is a model for believers to follow God's call, regardless of the challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's resistance to God's command reflect the human tendency to resist divine authority, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

2. In what ways do the "great acts of judgment" in Exodus 7:4 foreshadow the ultimate deliverance through Christ? Consider connections to New Testament teachings.

3. How can we apply the example of Moses and Aaron's obedience in our daily walk with God, especially when facing opposition?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's character, particularly His justice and mercy, and how should this influence our relationship with Him?

5. How can the account of the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt inspire us to seek freedom from personal or spiritual bondage today? Consider practical steps and scriptural support.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:19-20
God foretells that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand, connecting to the theme of divine intervention.

Romans 9:17-18
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in hardening hearts to display His power and mercy.

Psalm 136:10-12
Celebrates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting His enduring love and mighty acts.

Hebrews 11:27-29
Reflects on the faith of Moses in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, emphasizing trust in God's promises.