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Book of Exodus - Chapter 14 - Verse 17

14:17
And I, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them: and I will get me honour upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen.

Meaning

Within the context of the Bible, this verse from Exodus 14:17 illustrates God's sovereignty and power over the nations of the world. In this particular instance, God is proclaiming his intentions to harden the hearts of the Egyptians as they pursue the Israelites. By hardening their hearts, God is actively intervening in the situation to bring about a specific outcome - the manifestation of his glory and honor upon Pharaoh and his army. This verse showcases God's ability to use even the hearts of his enemies to accomplish his purposes and demonstrate his superiority over all earthly powers. Through the hardening of the Egyptians' hearts, God is setting the stage for a miraculous display of his might and authority, ultimately leading to the liberation of the Israelites and the fulfillment of his divine plan.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse where God declares that He will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, it is essential to understand the context in which this statement is made. This verse comes from the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, where God is displaying His power and might through a series of plagues sent upon the land. By hardening the hearts of the Egyptians, God is demonstrating His sovereignty and control over all nations, including those who oppose Him. This divine hardening of hearts serves to bring about His ultimate purpose of bringing honor and glory to Himself through the defeat of Pharaoh and his army. This verse highlights God's ability to use even the hardened hearts of His enemies to accomplish His divine plan and establish His authority over all creation.

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