What does Exodus 10:3 reveal about God's authority over Pharaoh's heart? Setting the Scene Exodus 10:3: “So Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh and said to him, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: “How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, so that they may worship Me.”’” God’s Sovereign Claim over the Heart • The Lord confronts Pharaoh directly—He does not appeal, He commands. • By asking, “How long…?” God shows He has been patiently permitting Pharaoh’s stubbornness but remains fully in control of both the timeline and outcome (Exodus 4:21; 7:3). • The demand to “humble yourself before Me” reveals that Pharaoh’s pride is ultimately subject to the Lord’s authority; the Creator has rights over the creature’s heart (Proverbs 21:1). Human Stubbornness within Divine Sovereignty • Scripture repeatedly states that the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart (Exodus 9:12; 10:20, 27). • Yet Exodus 10:3 holds Pharaoh personally accountable for his refusal. • This twin truth—God hardens, Pharaoh refuses—shows: – God’s sovereignty never excuses human sin. – Human responsibility never limits God’s rule (Romans 9:17-18). Why the Command Matters • Humility before God is not optional; it is the required posture of every ruler and nation (Psalm 2:10-12). • Pharaoh’s heart is the battleground on which God displays His supremacy “so that My people may worship Me” (Exodus 9:16). • Each plague, including the coming locusts (10:4-6), magnifies God’s power over both nature and the proud human will. Key Takeaways • The Lord has absolute authority to direct even the most powerful human heart. • He alone defines the terms of repentance and obedience. • Persistent pride invites escalating judgment, while humble submission opens the door to mercy (James 4:6). |
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