What lessons from Exodus 9:15 can guide us in sharing the Gospel today?

Exodus 9:15: “For by now I could have stretched out My hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth.”

God’s Controlled Power in Judgment

• The verse reminds us that the Lord held back full destruction even though He could have wiped Egypt away instantly.

• When sharing the Gospel, we present a God who is both able to judge and willing to spare (Romans 11:22; Revelation 20:11-15).

• This balance helps listeners understand the seriousness of sin and the wonder of mercy.

Patience That Provides Opportunity

• God’s restraint gave Pharaoh more chances to repent; the Gospel offers people the same window today (2 Peter 3:9).

• Emphasize that every additional heartbeat is a gift meant to lead to repentance (Romans 2:4).

Urgency in the Face of Mercy

• Though God delayed, judgment still came. Delay is not dismissal (Hebrews 9:27).

• Share with loving urgency—tomorrow is not promised (Proverbs 27:1; James 4:13-14).

Clear Warning, Gracious Invitation

• Moses warned Pharaoh plainly; Gospel messengers must do likewise, explaining both wrath and rescue (John 3:18,36).

• Offer hope in Christ right alongside the warning, so hearers can flee to the only safe refuge (Acts 4:12).

Confidence in God’s Sovereignty

• Deliverance depended on God’s choice, not Pharaoh’s power; our confidence rests in God’s work, not our persuasion (John 6:44; Acts 16:14).

• We sow faithfully, trusting the Lord to open hearts and bring the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

Perseverance Despite Resistance

• Nine plagues show how stubborn hearts can be, yet Moses kept speaking. Some audiences may harden, but we continue (Galatians 6:9).

• Faithfulness, not immediate results, measures success.

Demonstrating the Gospel Through Deeds

• The plagues were visible confirmations of God’s word; today, transformed lives and acts of love authenticate the message (Matthew 5:16; Titus 2:7-8).

• Live in such a way that people see evidence of God’s power before they ever hear a word from our lips.

Summary

Exodus 9:15 teaches that God’s sovereign restraint magnifies His mercy, yet underscores the certainty of judgment. As we share the Gospel, we hold these truths in tension—speaking with urgency, warning honestly, inviting graciously, and trusting Him to do what only He can do in every heart.