How should Christians respond to unjust demands, as seen in Exodus 5:10?

◄ Christian response to unjust demands? ►

Setting the Scene: Unjust Commands in Exodus 5:10

“ So the taskmasters and foremen went out and said to the people, ‘This is what Pharaoh says: “I am no longer giving you straw.” ’ ”

Pharaoh withdraws a key resource yet demands the same brick quota—a clear abuse of power and a textbook picture of an unjust demand.

What Made the Demand Unjust?

• It contradicted previous expectations (v.7–8).

• It was impossible to meet without severe harm (v.11–13).

• It flowed from prideful defiance of God’s authority (v.2).

Principles for Believers Today

1. Recognize injustice without denying God’s sovereignty

• Genesis 50:20—God can turn evil intentions for good.

• Psalm 103:19—“The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.”

2. Obey whenever possible—until obedience to man would mean disobedience to God

• Romans 13:1—Submit to governing authorities.

• Acts 5:29—“We must obey God rather than men.”

3. Endure with integrity when forced to comply

• 1 Peter 2:19—“For it is commendable if someone endures pain while suffering unjustly because of conscience toward God.”

• Matthew 5:41—“And if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two.”

4. Cry out to God rather than retaliate

• Exodus 5:15—The Israelite foremen appealed to Pharaoh, then later to Moses and the LORD (6:5).

• Philippians 4:6—Bring every request to God with thanksgiving.

5. Trust that God hears, sees, and will act in His time

• Exodus 6:6—“I will deliver you from their bondage.”

• Romans 12:19—“Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”

Living Out the Response

• Stay respectful: speak truthfully yet courteously to those in authority.

• Keep working diligently: avoid a bitter, half-hearted spirit (Colossians 3:23).

• Support one another: injustice isolates; fellowship strengthens.

• Seek lawful relief where available: Paul claimed Roman citizenship (Acts 22:25).

• Hold fast to hope: the God who delivered Israel will vindicate His people again (2 Thessalonians 1:6–7).