What does "strong hand" in Exodus 6:1 teach about God's intervention? Setting the Scene “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh: For with a strong hand he will let them go, and with a strong hand he will drive them out of his land.’” What the Phrase Signifies • “Strong hand” (Hebrew: yad chazaqah) points to God’s irresistible power. • While the sentence speaks of Pharaoh’s actions, the “strong hand” is God’s, compelling Pharaoh to act against his hardened will (Exodus 3:19–20). • The phrase is repeatedly used to describe the same divine force that redeemed Israel (Deuteronomy 4:34; 7:19; 26:8). Five Truths About God’s Intervention Highlighted by “Strong Hand” 1. God intervenes sovereignly – He does not negotiate with evil powers; He overrules them. – Psalm 115:3, “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him.” 2. God intervenes decisively – His deliverance is not gradual persuasion but commanding might. – Deuteronomy 26:8, “The LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror, signs, and wonders.” 3. God intervenes visibly – The strong hand leaves undeniable evidence of divine activity. – Exodus 7–12 record ten plagues that exposed Egypt’s impotence. 4. God intervenes for His people’s freedom – The goal of the strong hand is liberation, not mere relief. – Exodus 6:6, “I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.” 5. God intervenes to demonstrate His glory – Every act magnifies His name among nations. – Exodus 9:16, “I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you My power and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Supporting Passages Echoing the Same Theme • Psalm 136:12 – “with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm; His loving devotion endures forever.” • Jeremiah 32:21 – “You brought Your people Israel out of Egypt with signs and wonders, with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and with great terror.” • Acts 13:17 – “The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and exalted the people during their stay in the land of Egypt; with an uplifted arm He led them out.” Application: Living in the Light of the Strong Hand • Confidence—God’s power still overrides every opposing force (Ephesians 1:19–20). • Hope—deliverance is certain when God determines it, even if opposition appears immovable. • Worship—recognizing His strong hand fuels heartfelt praise (Psalm 98:1). |
    |