Bible Commentaries

Before the second plague Pharaoh received an opportunity to repent. He was warned of the approach of the plague. The warning had no effect. In the first plague magicians had produced apparently like results and it was so also with this second one. This was their last success. Pharaoh relented and asked for a respite. This was granted and for a reason clearly declared, "That thou mayest how that there is none like unto Jehovah our God." At any sign of turning by Pharaoh the divine mercy turned toward him. Here again Pharaoh hardened, that is, calloused his own heart. Note this was his own act and not God's.

In the coming of the third plague there was a change of method. No warning was given. Pharaoh had broken faith. In the presence of this visitation the magicians confessed their recognition of some power superior to any they knew. Their incompetence and testimony constituted a still further warning to Pharaoh. Nevertheless, again he refused to relent.

Therefore the judgment of God went forward and we have the first of the second cycle of plagues. A new method of impressing the heart of the king was taken by the information that Israel was to be immune. At this point Pharaoh commenced a policy of attempted compromise. He suggested that they should sacrifice in the land. This Moses absolutely refused, declaring it was necessary to separate from Egypt in order to worship. Pharaoh then seemed to give way as he declared his willingness to let them go, but not far. Once again, by his own act, Pharaoh made stubborn his heart and refused to submit.