God's Name Declared

The fifth, sixth and seventh plagues intensify God's judgment. The plague on livestock struck animals Egyptians valued, yet God again distinguished His people: of the livestock of the children of Israel, not one died. The boils came from ashes of the furnace, which Moses threw into the air (9:8-10). The magicians, defeated, disappear from the story.

Before the hail, God declares His purpose to Pharaoh: For this cause I have made you stand: to show you my power, and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth. Paul quotes this in Romans 9:17. God's purpose was global: the whole world would hear of Yahweh. Even here, God offers mercy, telling the Egyptians how to protect their servants and livestock. Some Egyptians feared Yahweh's word, and they were spared.

Pharaoh's confession sounds right: I have sinned this time. Yahweh is righteous, and I and my people are wicked. But Moses discerns, I know that you don't yet fear Yahweh God. When the storm passes, Pharaoh sinned yet more, and hardened his heart. Words of confession without a changed heart are empty. True repentance turns away from sin and toward God.