“And Pharaoh’s servants said unto him, How long shall this man be a snare unto us? Let the men go, that they may serve the LORD their God: knowest thou not yet that Egypt is destroyed?”
This verse is part of the narrative in the book of Exodus, which describes the events surrounding the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. At this point in the story, God had already sent a series of plagues upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and demand the release of His people.
Let’s break down this verse and explore its significance within the broader context:
- The Concern of Pharaoh’s Servants: The verse begins with Pharaoh’s servants expressing their frustration and concern to him. They ask, “How long shall this man be a snare unto us?” The “man” referred to here is Moses, the leader appointed by God to deliver the Israelites. The servants are essentially questioning why Pharaoh is allowing Moses to continue causing trouble and upheaval in Egypt.
- The Request for the Israelites’ Release: Pharaoh’s servants suggest to him, “Let the men go, that they may serve the LORD their God.” They recognize the devastating consequences of the plagues and acknowledge the power of the God of Israel. They advise Pharaoh to release the Israelite men so that they may worship and serve their God. This request reflects a growing awareness among the Egyptians of the futility of resisting God’s will.
- The Awareness of Egypt’s Destruction: The servants conclude their plea by stating, “knowest thou not yet that Egypt is destroyed?” This statement emphasizes the severity of the situation and the impact of the plagues on Egypt. The land had already suffered greatly, and the servants are pointing out to Pharaoh that the continued refusal to release the Israelites will only lead to further destruction and devastation.
Key Themes and Lessons:
- The Power of God: The verse highlights the power of God, who uses the plagues as a means of demonstrating His authority and bringing judgment upon Egypt. Through these extraordinary displays of power, God reveals Himself to both the Israelites and the Egyptians, establishing His supremacy over all other gods.
- Persistence in Resistance: Pharaoh’s stubbornness and refusal to heed the warnings and requests from his own servants serve as a cautionary example. His continued resistance against God’s command results in the deterioration of his kingdom and the suffering of his people. This serves as a reminder of the futility of opposing God’s will and the consequences of prideful disobedience.
- God’s Faithfulness and Deliverance: Despite Pharaoh’s resistance, God remains faithful to His promises. The plagues ultimately lead to the liberation of the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt. This story reminds us of God’s sovereignty and His willingness to act on behalf of His people, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
In summary, Exodus 10:7 (KJV) captures a critical moment in the story of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. It reveals the growing awareness among Pharaoh’s servants of the destructive consequences of their refusal to release the Israelites and acknowledges the power of the God of Israel. The verse underscores the importance of recognizing God’s authority, the futility of resisting His will, and the faithfulness of God in delivering His people.
