Topical Encyclopedia Self-exaltation is a theme that runs throughout the Bible, often depicted as a sin that leads to downfall. One of the most prominent biblical figures associated with self-exaltation is Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt during the time of Moses. Pharaoh's account is a powerful illustration of the dangers of pride and the refusal to submit to God's authority.Pharaoh's Heart and Self-Exaltation The narrative of Pharaoh's self-exaltation is primarily found in the Book of Exodus. Pharaoh is portrayed as a ruler who considers himself a god, a common belief in ancient Egyptian culture where the Pharaoh was seen as a divine figure. This self-perception is evident in his interactions with Moses and Aaron, whom God sends to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. In Exodus 5:2 , Pharaoh responds to Moses and Aaron's request with arrogance: "Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go." This statement reflects Pharaoh's self-exaltation, as he places his own authority above that of the God of Israel. The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme in the Exodus narrative, illustrating his persistent self-exaltation. The Bible describes both Pharaoh hardening his own heart and God hardening it further, as seen in Exodus 9:12 : "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had told Moses." Pharaoh's hardened heart is a manifestation of his pride and self-exaltation. Despite witnessing the power of God through the plagues, Pharaoh refuses to humble himself and acknowledge God's supremacy. His self-exaltation blinds him to the reality of God's power and leads to his eventual downfall. The Plagues as a Response to Self-Exaltation The ten plagues that God sends upon Egypt serve as a direct response to Pharaoh's self-exaltation. Each plague challenges the authority and supposed divinity of Pharaoh, demonstrating that the God of Israel is the true sovereign. In Exodus 7:17 , God declares, "By this you will know that I am the LORD: I will strike the waters of the Nile with the staff in my hand, and they will be turned to blood." The plagues systematically dismantle the Egyptian pantheon and Pharaoh's claims to divinity, revealing the futility of self-exaltation in the face of the one true God. Despite the increasing severity of the plagues, Pharaoh's pride prevents him from relenting until the final, devastating plague—the death of the firstborn. Pharaoh's Downfall Pharaoh's self-exaltation ultimately leads to his downfall. After the death of the firstborn, Pharaoh finally relents and allows the Israelites to leave Egypt. However, his pride resurfaces, and he pursues the Israelites with his army, leading to the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea. In Exodus 14:17-18 , God states, "And I indeed will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them. Then I will gain honor by means of Pharaoh and all his army, his chariots and horsemen. The Egyptians will know that I am the LORD when I am honored through Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen." Pharaoh's pursuit ends in disaster as the waters of the Red Sea return, drowning him and his army. This final act of self-exaltation results in his destruction, serving as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and the refusal to acknowledge God's authority. Lessons from Pharaoh's Self-Exaltation The account of Pharaoh is a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-exaltation. It underscores the biblical principle that pride goes before destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Pharaoh's refusal to humble himself before God leads to his ruin, illustrating the futility of exalting oneself above the Creator. His account serves as a warning to all who would place their own authority above God's, reminding believers of the importance of humility and submission to divine will. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 9:17As yet exalt you yourself against my people, that you will not let them go? Nave's Topical Index Library Spiritualism. Can Our Dead Speak to Us? Chapter xli Pride and Humility Pride and Humility Chapter xxxvii General Index. part ii Resources What is Eckankar? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about hubris? | GotQuestions.org What is biblical womanhood? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Self-Exaltation: General Scriptures Concerning Self-Exaltation: Herod Agrippa I, when Deified by the People Self-Exaltation: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram Self-Exaltation: Nebuchadnezzar Self-Exaltation: Prince of Tyre, Making Himself God Self-Exaltation: Simon the Sorcerer Related Terms Self-forgetfulness (1 Occurrence) |
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