Exodus 7:5

And the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out My hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out from among them."

Study Bible

And the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD
This phrase emphasizes God's intention to reveal His identity and power not only to the Israelites but also to the Egyptians. In the ancient Near East, each nation had its own gods, and the Egyptians worshiped a pantheon of deities. By demonstrating His supremacy over the gods of Egypt through the plagues, God was establishing His sovereignty. This revelation is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where God desires to be known by all nations (e.g., Ezekiel 38:23). The knowledge of God as LORD (Yahweh) signifies a personal and covenantal relationship, distinct from the generic understanding of a deity.

when I stretch out My hand against Egypt
The phrase "stretch out My hand" is a metaphor for divine intervention and judgment. In biblical terms, the hand of God often symbolizes power and action (e.g., Isaiah 14:26-27). The plagues that follow are manifestations of this divine action, each targeting specific aspects of Egyptian life and their gods, demonstrating God's control over creation. Historically, Egypt was a powerful empire, and God's intervention was a direct challenge to Pharaoh's authority and the religious system of Egypt.

and bring the Israelites out from among them.
This phrase highlights the deliverance aspect of God's plan. The Exodus is a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing salvation and liberation. It prefigures the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who leads believers out of bondage to sin (e.g., Luke 9:31, where the term "exodus" is used in reference to Jesus' death and resurrection). The act of bringing the Israelites out is not just a physical relocation but a spiritual redemption, setting the stage for the establishment of a covenant relationship at Sinai. Theologically, it underscores God's faithfulness to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who reveals His power and sovereignty over all nations, including Egypt.

2. The Egyptians
The people of Egypt, representing a powerful nation that opposes God's people and His purposes.

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

4. Pharaoh
The king of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against God, serving as an antagonist in the account.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, enslaved in Egypt, whom He plans to deliver and bring into the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all nations and events. His purposes will prevail, even when human powers resist.

Divine Revelation
Understand that God's actions in history reveal His character and authority. The Egyptians came to know the LORD through His mighty acts.

Deliverance and Judgment
God's deliverance of His people often involves judgment on those who oppose Him. This dual theme is evident in the Exodus account.

Faith and Obedience
Like Moses and Aaron, believers are called to trust and obey God's commands, even when facing opposition or uncertainty.

Witness to the Nations
God's works among His people serve as a testimony to the world, calling others to acknowledge Him as LORD.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the demonstration of God's power in Egypt challenge our understanding of His sovereignty in today's world?

2. In what ways can we, like Moses and Aaron, act as instruments of God's deliverance in our communities?

3. How does the theme of deliverance and judgment in Exodus 7:5 relate to the message of the Gospel?

4. What are some modern "Pharaohs" or systems that resist God's purposes, and how can we respond as believers?

5. How can we ensure that our lives serve as a witness to God's power and sovereignty, similar to how the events in Egypt revealed God to the Egyptians?

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 demonstration of God's power in Exodus 7:5.

Psalm 105:27-38
This passage recounts the plagues and wonders God performed in Egypt, emphasizing His power and faithfulness.

Romans 9:17
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in displaying His power and proclaiming His name throughout the earth.

Ezekiel 30:19
God declares His judgment on Egypt, reinforcing the theme of His sovereignty over nations.

Revelation 15:3-4
The song of Moses and the Lamb praises God's righteous acts, echoing the deliverance and judgment themes found in Exodus.