Exodus 5:1, 8:25, 8:28, 10:8-11, 24 Pharaoh's attitude to Worship
Pharaoh: This title to the kings of Egypt has come into effect from the 22nd Dynasty. We have references to the Pharaoh during Abraham, Pharaoh during Joseph, and Pharaoh during the Time of Moses and exodus, he was Amenhotep II (1439 – 1406 BC). Solomon’s father-in-law was also another Pharaoh.
The importance recognizing the character of Pharaoh as the shadow of Satan will help us to put in the right relationship with God and the right attitude toward worship. His identity, his subtlety, and his devices play a vital role in this study. Pharaoh is the type of ‘god of this world’ (2 Corinthians 4:4). Through The careful study of the conflict that existed between Pharaoh and Moses, we gain an insight into the secrets of the believer’s warfare. It is the face of faith in the world.
The Five Compromises in worship were Pharaoh's refusal, sacrifice in the Land, go but not far, Let the men Go, and go but leave your wealth. These are a constant struggle in the hearts of followers of Christ on Sunday after Sunday.
1. PHAROAH’S REFUSAL: He treated WORK AS MORE IMPORTANT THAN WORSHIP (Exodus 5:2): Pharaoh had an attitude of haughtiness. ‘I am great.’ He asked, who is Yahweh and why should I Obey him? (Exodus 5:2, 9:30, 10:3). He questioned the authority of God and his Will. There was a conflict between human Will and God’s Will. He was unwilling to humble himself (Exodus 10:3). Worship was a TIME PASS entertainment for Pharaoh (Exodus 5:8).
2. SACRIFICE IN THE LAND (Exodus 8:25): Pharaoh was reasonable and gave concession for worship. The world says to be modern, practical, and diplomatic. Bring the world into the church. Adopt a religion that suits your living in this land. Satan hates complete separation from the world. But God calls for separation (2 Corinthians 6:17).
3. GO BUT NOT FAR (Exodus 8:28): He said you can Worship but NOT GO TOO FAR from Sin, don’t go very near to God. Worship with the reach of luxury. Live in Egypt and worship God. Profess religion do not alter your way of living. Be successful in Egypt rather than successful in your piety.
4. LET THE MEN GO (Exodus 10:7-9,11): He said, worship Yahweh but GO ALONE AND LEAVE YOUR FAMILY behind at home –He was oppressing and torturing God’s people and the chosen race for his economic benefit (Exodus 5:23). He believed in Magicians, and witchcraft than the power of God (Exodus 7:11,22, 8:7). But Moses told Pharaoh that he would go with all – wives, sons, daughters, flocks, herds (Exodus 10:9).
5. Go but leave your wealth (Exodus 10:24): Many consecrate everything to God except their wealth. Many hold back their tithes, offerings, and grateful giving. But God said that not even a hoof be left behind. Take everything with you because you do not know which one the Lord would demand from you (Exodus 10:26). Please read Matthew 6:21.
ROUTINE CONFESSION OF SINS AND OPPORTUNISTIC SEEKER OF GOD – Exodus 8:15: if a hard situation comes to normalcy, he would change his attitude (Exodus 8:15), He postponed the repentance tomorrow, procrastination for the relief to enjoy (Exodus 8:10). He cheated God, dealt falsely with God and God’s people (Exodus 8:29,32). He inquired about the power of God but hardened his heart after seeing many wonders and miracles (Exodus 9:7). He was simply telling every time I will send them to Worship (Exodus 9;13-17).
Discussion:
1. Does worship relevant in the modern world of work pressure?
2. Where do you stand in your worship and relationship with God?
(For further studies on Exodus Events , kindly refer this series)
