Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, the concept of intercession is vividly illustrated in the interactions between Pharaoh and Moses during the plagues of Egypt. Intercession, in this context, refers to the act of pleading or mediating on behalf of another, particularly in prayer to God. Moses, as a prophet and leader chosen by God, frequently engaged in intercession for the people of Israel and, at times, even for Pharaoh and the Egyptians.
The account of Pharaoh soliciting Moses' intercession is primarily found in the Book of Exodus. As God sent a series of plagues upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage, Pharaoh repeatedly sought Moses' intercession to alleviate the suffering caused by these divine judgments.
One notable instance occurs during the plague of frogs. After the land of Egypt was overwhelmed by frogs, Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and pleaded for relief. He acknowledged the power of the Lord and requested Moses to intercede on his behalf.
Exodus 8:8 records this moment: "Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, 'Plead with the LORD to remove the frogs from me and my people, and I will let your people go to sacrifice to the LORD.'"
Moses agreed to intercede, demonstrating his role as a mediator between God and Pharaoh. He asked Pharaoh to specify a time for the removal of the frogs, to which Pharaoh responded, "Tomorrow." Moses then prayed to the Lord, and the frogs were removed, showcasing the efficacy of his intercession (
Exodus 8:9-13).
Another significant instance of Pharaoh soliciting Moses' intercession occurs during the plague of hail. The devastation caused by the hail prompted Pharaoh to again seek Moses' intervention. In
Exodus 9:27-28 , Pharaoh confessed his sin and the righteousness of the Lord, saying, "This time I have sinned; the LORD is righteous, and I and my people are wicked. Plead with the LORD, for there has been enough of God’s thunder and hail. I will let you go; you do not need to stay any longer."
Moses, in response, promised to stretch out his hands to the Lord, and the thunder and hail would cease. True to his word, Moses interceded, and the storm subsided, yet Pharaoh's heart remained hardened, and he did not let the Israelites go (
Exodus 9:29-35).
These episodes highlight the role of Moses as an intercessor, not only for the Israelites but also, at times, for their oppressors. Despite Pharaoh's insincerity and repeated hardening of heart, Moses' willingness to intercede underscores the biblical principle of seeking God's mercy and intervention through prayer. Moses' intercession serves as a testament to the power of prayer and the importance of mediating on behalf of others, even those who oppose God's will.
Nave's Topical Index
Exodus 8:8,28Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Entreat the LORD, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice to the LORD.
Nave's Topical IndexExodus 9:28
Entreat the LORD (for it is enough) that there be no more mighty thunder and hail; and I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer.
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Exodus 10:17
Now therefore forgive, I pray you, my sin only this once, and entreat the LORD your God, that he may take away from me this death only.
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Exodus 12:32
Also take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and be gone; and bless me also.
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Moses, the Mighty Intercessor
... Four times were the prayers of Moses solicited by Pharaoh ... for me." Moses went out
from Pharaoh and entreated ... having Aaron to join him in intercession for these ...
/.../bounds/prayer and praying men/iv moses the mighty intercessor.htm
A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
... entertainment. This was that that made Joseph depart from it, when solicited
to embrace it by a very powerful argument. (Gen.34:6-7). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm
Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm
Resources
What is intercessory prayer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is All Saints' Day? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the satanic verses? | GotQuestions.orgIntercession: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
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