How does Pharaoh's response in Exodus 5:17 reveal his heart towards God? Setting the Scene Exodus opens with God’s clear command to Pharaoh: “Let My people go, so that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness” (Exodus 5:1). Pharaoh immediately resists, forcing Israel to gather their own straw while still meeting brick quotas. His next words expose far more than administrative policy. Text in Focus Exodus 5:17: “But Pharaoh answered, ‘You are slackers, slackers! That is why you say, “Let us go and sacrifice to the LORD.” ’ ” Pharaoh’s Accusation Uncovered • “Slackers, slackers!”—a double charge emphasizing contempt. • Blames Israel’s desire to worship on laziness, not on divine command. • Ignores the identity of the LORD and redefines the issue as mere workforce discipline. What This Reveals About Pharaoh’s Heart • Hardness toward God’s Word – Already declared: “Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice?” (Exodus 5:2). • Prideful self-sufficiency – Sees himself as ultimate authority; refuses to yield to any higher Sovereign. • Contempt for worship – Labels genuine devotion “idleness,” exposing a worldview that values production over piety. • Deception and suppression of truth – Twists the narrative, portraying obedience to God as rebellion against Pharaoh. • Persistent rebellion – Each plague later intensifies this obstinacy (Exodus 8:15; 9:34). Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 9:17—“You still set yourself against My people and do not let them go.” • Romans 1:18—suppression of truth in unrighteousness mirrors Pharaoh’s denial. • Hebrews 3:13—sin’s deceitfulness hardens the heart, illustrated in Pharaoh’s repeated refusals. Contrast with God’s Call • Exodus 3:12—God’s purpose: “When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” • True freedom is defined by sacrificial worship; Pharaoh equates freedom only with labor quotas. Lessons for Believers Today • Expect opposition when obeying God’s commands; earthly powers may mislabel devotion as irresponsibility. • Guard against redefining worship as optional or expendable; God demands priority. • Recognize that persistent pride blinds the heart; humble submission to Scripture opens it. • Trust God’s unfolding plan; Pharaoh’s hostility becomes the backdrop for divine deliverance and judgment (Exodus 6:6-7). |
    |