Exodus Chapter 7 sets in motion a powerful stage for God’s supremacy, an unmistakable declaration of who truly reigns. Moses and Aaron stand boldly before Pharaoh, setting off a chain of events that will forever alter history. Yet it’s easy to miss the depth of both spiritual and historical significance beneath these events, so let us pause to explore it deeply.
Often, western readers gloss over the serpentine symbolism in this chapter. Ancient Egyptian culture revered serpents deeply; the cobra (“uraeus”) adorned Pharaoh’s crown, symbolizing the king’s protection and divine authority from Egyptian gods. Thus, Aaron’s rod becoming a serpent (Hebrew: “tannin,” sometimes translated as dragon or sea-monster, symbolizing chaos or powerful destructive forces) challenges Pharaoh’s sovereignty directly. Here God proclaims that His authority supersedes Egypt’s mightiest symbols and gods.
Notice, however, the magicians also replicate this sign, at least superficially (v. 11). Here we glimpse a profound spiritual truth echoed throughout Scripture: counterfeit miracles exist and may deceive many temporarily (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, English Standard Version). Yet Aaron’s serpent devours theirs, decisively establishing divine superiority. Augustine, discussing such wonders in his City of God, recommends discernment, reminding us that signs alone do not equate to truth—truth lies in who God is and His revelation.
One of Exodus’ challenging theological themes is found here clearly: God’s sovereignty interacting with human response. “But Pharaoh’s heart became hard…” (v. 13, New International Version), suggests not a mere passive occurrence, but a deeply complex relationship between God’s sovereignty and Pharaoh’s own stubborn defiance.
Many theologians such as Calvin and Luther have wrestled deeply with the concept of God “hardening Pharaoh’s heart,” ultimately emphasizing God’s sovereignty. Others, like Arminius and Wesley, highlight the role Pharaoh’s own repeated resistance played. While these theological positions both have merit, the biblical Hebrew here presses upon us two verbs interchangeably used: Pharaoh hardened his own heart (kaved, meaning “heavy,” stubborn) and God hardened Pharaoh’s heart (hizzeq, meaning “strengthened” or “made firm”). This dual language implies that God in some sense gives Pharaoh what Pharaoh chooses—confirming a trajectory he stubbornly pursued himself.
Turning the Nile River into blood directly confronts Egypt’s trusted deity: Hapi, the god of the Nile, who Egyptians depended upon for fertility and sustenance. Instead, God turns that very life-source into death, disruption, and judgment. Archaeological findings from Egypt confirm the Nile’s central importance in ancient life, agriculture, and religious rites. Thus, Yahweh’s first plague shattered both economic stability and spiritual confidence, exhibiting His complete mastery over creation.
This recurring biblical principle reminds us of God’s purposeful judgment against idolatry (Isaiah 42:8, Christian Standard Bible). Whenever we place security in false gods or faulty sources rather than God Himself, we must expect divine correction—the Fatherly discipline designed to liberate us, not merely punish.
As believers today, we confront similar challenges. We encounter cultural symbols and societal pressures that tempt us away from uncompromising trust in God alone. Exodus 7 speaks profoundly to trusting wholly in God’s supremacy, even in circumstances where other powers seem impressive or real.
Today, reflect on areas of your own life where you have subtly replaced reliance on God with dependence on worldly symbols or power—security, money, influence or approval—our modern idols. Learn from Pharaoh’s tragic choice and Moses’s radical obedience. Recognize God’s superiority clearly displayed, and rest your confidence fully in Him alone.
“A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” by Martin Luther. This powerful hymn reinforces our reliance on God’s sovereign strength above earthly powers:
“Did we in our own strength confide,
our striving would be losing;
were not the right Man on our side,
the Man of God’s own choosing…”
Heavenly Father,
You alone reign supreme over every power and authority. Forgive us when
we fail to trust You completely or when our hearts become stubborn
towards Your voice. Soften those places that have grown resistant, and
remind us that true power, life, and joy rest entirely in Your hands.
Equip and embolden us to stand faithfully, as Moses did, even before
intimidating circumstances or forces. Let Your mighty power shine
through our lives, turning hearts towards Christ, who reigns victorious
over all earthly rulers and spiritual forces. Through Jesus Christ our
Lord, Amen.