Exodus 10:8

So Moses and Aaron were brought back to Pharaoh. "Go, worship the LORD your God," he said. "But who exactly will be going?"

Study Bible

So Moses and Aaron were brought back to Pharaoh.
This phrase indicates a recurring pattern in the narrative of the plagues, where Moses and Aaron repeatedly confront Pharaoh. The act of being "brought back" suggests Pharaoh's continued resistance and the persistence of God's messengers. Historically, this reflects the Egyptian court's protocol, where only those summoned could approach the Pharaoh. Theologically, it underscores the theme of divine persistence and human obstinacy. Moses and Aaron, as representatives of God, symbolize the prophetic role of mediating between God and humanity, a role ultimately fulfilled by Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator.

“Go, worship the LORD your God,” he said.
Pharaoh's command to "Go, worship the LORD your God" reflects a momentary concession under pressure from the plagues. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) signifies the covenant name of God, emphasizing the distinct identity of the God of Israel compared to the Egyptian pantheon. This phrase highlights the central theme of worship and obedience to God, a recurring motif throughout the Bible. It foreshadows the ultimate deliverance and worship of God by all nations, as seen in prophecies like Isaiah 66:23.

“But who exactly will be going?”
Pharaoh's question reveals his attempt to maintain control over the situation. It reflects the cultural and political context of ancient Egypt, where the Pharaoh was seen as a divine ruler with absolute authority. By questioning who will go, Pharaoh seeks to limit the Israelites' freedom and maintain his power over them. This question also sets the stage for the subsequent dialogue about the scope of Israel's liberation, highlighting the theme of complete versus partial obedience to God's commands. It points to the comprehensive nature of salvation in Christ, who offers complete freedom from sin for all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A central figure in the Exodus account, Moses is chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. He acts as God's spokesperson to Pharaoh.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother, who assists him in communicating God's demands to Pharaoh. He often acts as Moses' mouthpiece.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that God sends upon Egypt.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and from which God is delivering them through Moses and Aaron.

5. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Exodus 10:8 occurs in the context of these plagues.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Patience
God demonstrates His sovereignty over all creation through the plagues, yet He is patient, giving Pharaoh multiple opportunities to repent.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's repeated refusal to obey God serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice and commands.

Leadership and Obedience
Moses and Aaron exemplify faithful leadership and obedience to God's instructions, even in the face of opposition and danger.

Divine Deliverance
The account underscores God's power to deliver His people from bondage, a theme that resonates with the spiritual deliverance offered through Christ.

Faith in Action
The account encourages believers to act in faith, trusting in God's promises and timing, even when circumstances seem insurmountable.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the interaction between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh in Exodus 10:8 illustrate the theme of obedience versus rebellion?

2. In what ways does Pharaoh's response to God's commands serve as a cautionary tale for us today?

3. How can we apply the example of Moses and Aaron's leadership and faithfulness in our own lives and communities?

4. What parallels can we draw between the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and the spiritual deliverance offered through Jesus Christ?

5. How does the account of the plagues and Pharaoh's hardened heart challenge us to examine our own hearts and responsiveness to God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 5:1-2
This passage introduces the initial confrontation between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh, setting the stage for the plagues and Pharaoh's hardened heart.

Exodus 12:31-32
This passage describes Pharaoh finally relenting and allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt, showing the eventual fulfillment of God's promise.

Hebrews 11:24-29
This New Testament passage highlights Moses' faith and his role in the Exodus, connecting the Old Testament account to the broader theme of faith in God's promises.