How does Exodus 11:1 demonstrate God's sovereignty over Pharaoh and Egypt? Scripture Focus: Exodus 11:1 “The LORD said to Moses, ‘I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt; after that, he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will drive you out completely.’” Observing the Text • God Himself speaks—no mediator or committee decides the plan • “I will bring” – divine initiative; the plague originates solely with the LORD • “After that, he will let you go” – God foretells Pharaoh’s exact response • “He will drive you out completely” – the exodus will be total and irreversible Key Marks of Sovereignty in Exodus 11:1 • Absolute authority: God sets both the cause (the plague) and the outcome (Israel’s release) • Control over rulers: Pharaoh’s future action is announced as a certainty before it occurs (cf. Proverbs 21:1) • Precise timing: “one more plague” shows a predetermined limit to divine judgment • Comprehensive reach: The plague targets “Pharaoh and Egypt,” displaying mastery over the entire nation • Irresistible purpose: Pharaoh will not merely permit but “drive” Israel out—his will becomes the vehicle of God’s plan Tracing the Theme through Exodus • Exodus 3:19-20 – God predicted Pharaoh’s stubbornness and the need for “wonders” • Exodus 7-10 – Each plague escalates, underscoring the LORD’s repeated refrain, “that you may know that I am the LORD” • Exodus 12:31-33 – Fulfillment: Pharaoh summons Moses “during the night” and urges Israel to leave, exactly as foretold Wider Biblical Echoes • Romans 9:17 – “For Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose…’” • Daniel 4:35 – No one can thwart God’s hand • Psalm 135:6 – The LORD does whatever pleases Him “in the heavens and on the earth” Living It Out • Confidence: World leaders remain under God’s hand; His plans for His people cannot be blocked • Patience: God’s timing may involve “one more plague,” yet His schedule is flawless • Worship: The same sovereign Lord who directed Egypt’s story governs ours today |
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