What is the significance of Exodus 7:1-5?

The significance of Exodus 7:1-5 is profound, both in its immediate context within the Exodus narrative and in its broader theological implications. This passage sets the stage for the dramatic confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh, and it reveals key aspects of God's character and His plan for the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

Exodus 7:1-5 reads:

"And the LORD said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet. Thou shalt speak all that I command thee: and Aaron thy brother shall speak unto Pharaoh, that he send the children of Israel out of his land. And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt. But Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine armies, and my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them." (Exodus 7:1-5, KJV)

This passage can be unpacked to highlight several key themes and theological points:

Divine Authority and Representation

In verse 1, God tells Moses, "See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet." This statement is not to be understood literally, but rather it emphasizes the authority that Moses carries as God's representative. In the ancient Near Eastern context, Pharaoh was considered a god or at least a divine figure. By elevating Moses to a position akin to a god in Pharaoh's eyes, God is establishing the superiority of His divine authority over the earthly authority of Pharaoh. Aaron, serving as Moses' prophet, underscores the prophetic tradition in which God's message is conveyed through human intermediaries.

The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart

Verse 3 introduces the concept of God hardening Pharaoh's heart. This is one of the more theologically complex and debated aspects of the Exodus story. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it demonstrates God's sovereignty over human affairs. God is not merely reacting to Pharaoh's decisions; He is actively shaping the course of events to fulfill His divine purposes. Secondly, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart ensures that the liberation of Israel will be accomplished through a series of miraculous signs and wonders, leaving no doubt that it is the work of the LORD.

Signs and Wonders

The "signs and wonders" mentioned in verse 3 refer to the plagues that God will bring upon Egypt. These miraculous acts serve several functions. They are a demonstration of God's power over the natural world and the false gods of Egypt. Each plague can be seen as a direct challenge to specific Egyptian deities, showing that the God of Israel is supreme. For example, the Nile turning to blood (Exodus 7:14-25) can be seen as a challenge to the god Hapi, the god of the Nile.

Divine Judgment and Deliverance

In verse 4, God states that Pharaoh will not listen to Moses and Aaron, which will lead to God laying His hand upon Egypt and bringing forth "great judgments." These judgments are both punitive and redemptive. They are punitive in that they bring suffering and destruction upon Egypt for its oppression of the Israelites. They are redemptive in that they lead to the liberation of God's people. This dual aspect of judgment and deliverance is a recurring theme in the Bible, seen in events such as the Babylonian exile and the final judgment in the Book of Revelation.

Knowledge of the LORD

Verse 5 is crucial as it reveals the ultimate purpose of these events: "And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them." The plagues and the Exodus are not just about freeing the Israelites; they are about revealing God's identity and power to the world. The knowledge of the LORD is a central theme in biblical theology. God's actions in history are intended to reveal His character and His covenantal faithfulness. This revelation is not limited to Israel but extends to the nations, as seen in the prophetic literature (e.g., Isaiah 45:22-23).

Theological Reflections

The passage invites several theological reflections. Firstly, it underscores the concept of divine election and mission. God chooses Moses and Aaron to be His instruments of deliverance. This theme of election is central to the biblical narrative, culminating in the New Testament with the election of Jesus Christ as the ultimate deliverer.

Secondly, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart raises questions about human free will and divine sovereignty. While it is clear that God is in control, Pharaoh is not portrayed as a mere puppet. He makes his own choices, which align with his character and disposition. This interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility is a mystery that runs throughout Scripture.

Thirdly, the passage highlights the theme of revelation. God's actions are intended to make His name known. This is not just intellectual knowledge but relational knowledge that leads to worship and obedience. The Exodus narrative, therefore, serves as a paradigm for understanding God's redemptive work in history.

Conclusion

Exodus 7:1-5 is a pivotal passage that sets the stage for the dramatic events of the Exodus. It reveals key aspects of God's character, including His sovereignty, justice, and desire for relational knowledge with humanity. It also highlights the themes of divine authority, prophetic representation, and the interplay between judgment and deliverance. As such, it provides rich material for theological reflection and spiritual edification, reminding us of the mighty acts of God and His ongoing work in the world.