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NASB | Exodus 4:21 ¶ The LORD said to Moses, "When you go back to Egypt see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders which I have put in your power; but I will harden his heart so that he will not let the people go. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Exodus 4:21 ¶ The LORD said to Moses, "When you return to Egypt, see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders (miracles) which I have put in your hand, but I will harden his heart and make him stubborn so that he will not let the people go. |
Subject: Why was his heart hardened? |
Bible Note: Hi Edwin, I believe that the Bible teaches the free will of man in several places. In John 8:44, the word for "wish" "his will you wish to do", is a word speaking of choice. "his will you are willing to do", or "his will you want to do." Joshua proclaimed "choose this day whom you will serve." (24:15) Joshua believed that people could choose. Paul urges us to (2 Cor 5:20) "be reconciled to God." Paul believed that we have a choice. Jesus said "if any man hears my voice, and opens the door" (Rev 3), "Come to Me, all you who are weary", Mat 23:37 "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not!" All of these speak of free will to receive or reject God. The Bible teaches both man's free will, and God's sovereign choice, and we can't teach one to the exclusion of the other. This is why so many arguments about this have continued for centuries. The pride of man wants to have the answer, but there is no reconciliation of these teachings that does not come down on one side or the other. I expect we will understand it when we are with Him. Your brother in Christ, Mark |