My Episode Script Notes.
Moses Before Pharoah Part 3: The Unyielding Pharaoh and the Plagues of Hail, Locusts and darkness.
In this chapter, we delve into the encounters between Moses and Pharaoh as they continue to wrestle with each other. The focus is on the lessons we can learn when dealing with stubborn and hard-hearted unbelievers, using the example of Pharaoh. Despite witnessing miracles and hearing the word of the Lord, Pharaoh consistently refuses to obey and let the Hebrew people go. Moses, perplexed by this resistance, wonders what more he can do to reach Pharaoh.
The chapter begins with the announcement of the seventh plague, the Plague of Hail. The Lord instructs Moses to confront Pharaoh once again and warn him that if he continues to resist, the full force of God's plagues will be unleashed upon Egypt. The purpose behind these plagues becomes evident—they serve as judgments against the Egyptian gods and demonstrate the Lord's power over them. Instead of destroying Pharaoh and his people immediately, God offers them a chance to protect themselves from the impending hailstorm by gathering their livestock and seeking shelter.
Some of Pharaoh's officials, who feared the word of the Lord, heed the warning and bring their slaves and livestock to safety. However, others ignore the Lord's command and leave their possessions in the field. The hailstorm strikes, devastating the land of Egypt with its intensity, destroying crops, animals, and trees. Remarkably, the land of Goshen, where the Israelites reside, is spared from the hail—a stark contrast that should have made an impact on the Egyptians.
Pharaoh, acknowledging his sin, summons Moses and Aaron, stating that the Lord is in the right, and he and his people are in the wrong. This admission is significant but does not necessarily indicate true repentance, as evidenced by the subsequent events. Pharaoh asks Moses to pray to the Lord to stop the thunder and hail, promising to let the Israelites go. Moses agrees but knows that Pharaoh and his officials still do not fear the Lord.
Once the hail ceases, Pharaoh reneges on his promise, hardening his heart along with his officials. The story then transitions to the eighth plague, the Plague of Locusts. God informs Moses that He has hardened Pharaoh's heart and the hearts of his servants to showcase His signs and mighty works. Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh again, urging him to humble himself and release the Israelites to serve God. They warn that if he refuses, swarms of locusts will descend upon Egypt, devouring what remains after the hail. The devastation caused by the locusts would be unprecedented, affecting crops, trees, and even infiltrating houses.
Pharaoh's servants, recognizing the impending destruction, implore him to let the Israelites go. However, Pharaoh tries to negotiate, allowing only the men to leave. Moses insists that everyone, including the young, old, sons, daughters, flocks, and herds, must be allowed to go, as they need to hold a feast to the Lord. Pharaoh rejects this request, warning of evil ahead for them, and drives Moses and Aaron out of his presence.
Throughout these encounters, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, despite witnessing the power of God's plagues. The story emphasizes the importance of true repentance, as mere acknowledgment of sin is not enough. Pharaoh's actions highlight the dangers of stubbornness and pride, ultimately leading to his own downfall and the continued suffering of the Egyptian people.
In conclusion, this chapter delves into the ongoing struggle between Moses and Pharaoh as they confront each other amidst the plagues of hail and locusts. It highlights the lessons we can learn when dealing with unyielding individuals, emphasizing the need