Exodus 5:2 – “Pharaoh said, ‘Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.’”
Extended Explanation
In Exodus 5:2, Pharaoh responds to the demand made by Moses and Aaron to release the Israelites. His response reveals his arrogance and ignorance of the God of Israel. Pharaoh, considered a god in his own right within the Egyptian culture, questions the authority and identity of the Lord. His rhetorical question, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him?” indicates his disbelief and dismissal of any power or authority other than his own. This verse sets the stage for the coming confrontation between the God of Israel and the gods of Egypt, as God will soon demonstrate His power in ways that Pharaoh cannot ignore.
Historical Context
At the time of this encounter, Egypt was one of the most powerful nations in the world, and Pharaoh was its supreme ruler, believed to be a deity by his people. The Egyptians worshipped many gods, each associated with different aspects of life and nature. The idea of a single God who commanded the allegiance of a whole people was foreign to Pharaoh. Moreover, the Israelites had been slaves in Egypt for generations, and Pharaoh likely saw them as property rather than a people with a God who could demand anything from him. This context highlights the monumental nature of the demand Moses and Aaron made and Pharaoh’s incredulity and defiance.
Theological Implications
Pharaoh’s question, “Who is the Lord?” isn’t just an expression of ignorance; it’s a challenge to God’s authority. Theologically, this verse underscores the theme of divine revelation. God is about to reveal Himself not only to Pharaoh and the Egyptians but to the entire world. Pharaoh’s refusal to acknowledge God sets up a confrontation that will display God’s power and establish His supremacy over all other gods. It also raises the issue of human pride and resistance to God’s will, a theme that runs throughout the Bible.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse serves as a crucial moment in the narrative. Pharaoh’s defiance encapsulates the conflict that drives the rest of the Exodus story. The stark contrast between Pharaoh’s arrogance and God’s sovereignty is established here, foreshadowing the plagues and judgments that are to come. The use of the phrase “I do not know the Lord” is significant because it highlights the ignorance of Egypt’s most powerful man, setting the stage for God to make Himself known through His mighty acts.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 3:19-20 – God foretells Moses that Pharaoh will not let the people go unless compelled by a mighty hand, setting the expectation for the confrontations to come.
- Romans 9:17 – Paul references Pharaoh, noting how God raised him up to demonstrate His power and proclaim His name throughout the earth.
- Psalm 2:1-4 – A similar theme of earthly rulers challenging God’s authority and God responding with power and sovereignty.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 5:2 serves as a reminder of the reality of human pride and resistance to God’s authority. Like Pharaoh, people today may question or reject God, but this verse warns us that such defiance leads to conflict with the Creator. It also encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, even when confronted by powers that seem greater than themselves. God’s ultimate authority and power are unchanging, and He will accomplish His purposes, regardless of human opposition.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Though Pharaoh’s response is one of defiance, this verse also indirectly points to God’s love. God’s response to Pharaoh’s challenge will be to reveal Himself not just to the Israelites but to the Egyptians as well. God’s willingness to engage with Pharaoh and display His power shows His desire to be known and acknowledged by all people. His actions in the coming chapters demonstrate not only His justice but also His mercy, as He gives Pharaoh multiple opportunities to recognize Him and change his course.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Pharaoh’s challenge to God’s authority foreshadows the ultimate rejection of Jesus Christ by the rulers and authorities of His time. Just as Pharaoh refused to acknowledge the God of Israel, many refused to recognize Jesus as the Son of God. However, Jesus’ resurrection, like the plagues in Egypt, is the ultimate demonstration of God’s power over all earthly authorities. In Acts 4:11, Peter speaks of Jesus as “the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone,” highlighting the theme of God’s chosen being rejected by human authority but ultimately triumphant.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Pharaoh’s response in Exodus 5:2 reveal about human nature and our tendency to resist God’s authority?
- How does this verse challenge us to recognize and submit to God’s authority in our own lives?
- In what ways do we see similar attitudes of defiance against God in the world today?
- How can Christians respond when confronted by those who, like Pharaoh, reject or question the authority of God?
- How does this verse help us understand the importance of God revealing Himself to all people, not just believers?
Exodus 5:2 challenges us to reflect on our own responses to God’s authority and to trust in His ultimate power and justice, even when faced with opposition.