What purpose do "signs and wonders" serve in God's plan in Exodus 7:3? Verse Focus “ ‘But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and though I multiply My signs and wonders in the land of Egypt,’ ” (Exodus 7:3) What Scripture Means by “Signs and Wonders” • “Signs” point unmistakably to God’s presence and message (Exodus 4:8–9; John 2:11). • “Wonders” spotlight His supernatural power, evoking awe and forcing a response (Deuteronomy 26:8). Purposes Unfolding in Exodus 7:3 1. Demonstrating God’s Absolute Sovereignty • God—not Pharaoh—sets the agenda (Exodus 9:16). • Each plague targets an Egyptian deity, exposing false worship (Numbers 33:4). 2. Authenticating Moses as God’s Messenger • “Thus says the LORD” carries weight when backed by the Nile turning to blood and locust-filled skies (Exodus 7–10). • The miracles separate Moses from the magicians (Exodus 8:18-19). 3. Executing Just Judgment on Persistent Rebellion • The hardening of Pharaoh’s heart allows God’s justice to be displayed publicly (Romans 9:17). • Signs escalate in intensity, matching Pharaoh’s growing stubbornness (Exodus 7:13; 9:12; 10:20). 4. Securing Israel’s Redemption • Plagues break Egypt’s grip, paving the way for the Passover and Red Sea deliverance (Exodus 12:12–13; 14:31). • God’s people witness firsthand that salvation is by His mighty hand alone (Deuteronomy 4:34). 5. Creating a Testimony for Future Generations • “Tell your son and grandson how severely I dealt with the Egyptians” (Exodus 10:2). • The story becomes a perpetual reminder in Israel’s festivals (Exodus 12:26-27; Psalm 105:26-27). 6. Inviting the Nations to Recognize the LORD • “The Egyptians will know that I am the LORD” (Exodus 7:5). • Rahab later cites these wonders as reason to fear and honor Israel’s God (Joshua 2:10-11). The Broader Biblical Thread • Miraculous signs accompany divine revelation throughout Scripture—Elijah at Carmel (1 Kings 18:36-39), Jesus’ ministry (Acts 2:22), and the apostles (Hebrews 2:4). • John frames Christ’s miracles so “you may believe that Jesus is the Christ… and that by believing you may have life” (John 20:30-31). Key Takeaways for Today • God still rules over hard hearts; no earthly power limits His purposes. • Miracles recorded in Scripture are trustworthy historical acts, grounding faith in fact, not myth. • The ultimate “sign” is the resurrection of Jesus, guaranteeing deliverance greater than the Exodus (Romans 6:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). In Summary Signs and wonders in Exodus 7:3 are strategic tools in God’s plan to reveal Himself, judge rebellion, rescue His people, and leave an enduring witness of His unmatched power and faithfulness. |
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