Yesterday, we considered Cain’s question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Cain is not alone in asking such a bad question. Today, let’s turn to Exodus and consider the example of Pharaoh.
When Moses was sent to Pharaoh to demand the Israelites be released, Pharoah asked, “Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.”[1]
First, Pharaoh’s question was arrogant. When questions are asked to condescend and dismiss others, they are evil questions. Second, Pharaoh’s question displayed an attitude of stubbornness. He wasn’t interested in learning about the Lord—his mind was made up already. Just because someone asks a question doesn’t mean they want to learn. Lastly, Pharaoh teaches us that ignorance is not an excuse. Maybe Pharaoh didn’t know who the Lord was—but could have learned. Instead, he persisted in rebellion. Pharaoh’s question was a window into his hardened heart, a heart that led to his downfall.
[1] Exodus 5:2