How does Exodus 14:17 demonstrate God's sovereignty over Pharaoh and his army? Text of Exodus 14:17 “And behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them; and I will be glorified through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen.” Key Observations • “I will harden” – God Himself initiates the heart-hardening, not Pharaoh. • “So that they will go in after them” – the Egyptians’ pursuit is divinely orchestrated. • “I will be glorified” – the entire episode serves God’s glory, not Israel’s ingenuity. • “Through Pharaoh and all his army” – even the mightiest earthly power becomes a tool in God’s hand. Layers of Sovereignty on Display • Sovereignty over hearts – God actively shapes human decisions (cf. Proverbs 21:1). • Sovereignty over events – The Red Sea encounter is precisely timed and directed (Exodus 14:4). • Sovereignty over nations – Egypt’s superpower status is no obstacle to God’s purposes (Psalm 135:5-6). • Sovereignty for glory – The miracle magnifies God’s name among Israel and the nations (Exodus 9:16; Isaiah 46:9-10). Supporting Passages • Exodus 9:16 – “But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you…” • Romans 9:17-18 – Paul echoes the same truth about God hardening whom He wills. • Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that pleases Him.” What This Means for Us • Human power is never ultimate; God directs even adversaries. • God can repurpose opposition into platforms for His glory. • Believers may rest knowing every circumstance—friendly or hostile—remains under His sovereign hand. |
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