Exodus 7 Commentary
The LORD’S initial demand that Pharaoh releases Israel was treated with contempt and ridicule. Now the LORD will make it impossible for Pharaoh to believe so that a full picture is unpacked before the human race. Pharaoh’s mocking of the God of Jacob is representative of man’s disrespectful attitude towards his Creator. He has accumulated several images and idols instead of the one true God. The LORD began by showing Himself to Moses. The elders of Israel saw and believed. Now the world of Pharaoh has to see. It won’t just be a couple of signs but a full package to leave all without excuse for believing.
The LORD commissions Aaron as Moses’ prophet in function. Is there a better description of a prophet or indeed prophecy itself beyond these sacred words from the mouth of the LORD? A prophet gets word from God and delivers to the people
We would look at the miracle of ‘staff into snake’ as a demonstration of superiority. The Pharaohs displayed their fierce superiority by adopting snake symbolism. Even the royal crown had a cobra that was prominently positioned in front. The LORD is telling us that what Aaron has in his hand is superior. There is a higher power.
Next, we see the LORD instruct Moses to turn the Nile into blood. The miracle is duplicated by the magicians which makes Pharaoh’s heart harder. The LORD deliberately enters into a mini race with the magicians, allowing them to rival a couple of power demonstrations. The miracle of ‘Nile into blood’ is duplicated perhaps to encourage the opposition. They should fully unpack their potential so that men don’t have lingering doubts about disused potential, albeit useless potential.
It appears the LORD is loving this contest!
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