Romans 9:18

"For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I caused you to be raised up, that I might show in you my power, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”"

Key Reflection

Romans 9:18 from the New Testament is a pivotal verse that illustrates God's sovereignty over human history and individual lives. According to this passage, as recorded in Exodus (Exodus 9:16), God used Pharaoh as an example of His power, choosing to harden his heart for the purpose of demonstrating His might not only among the Egyptians but also throughout the world. This reflects a broader theme in Romans, where Paul argues that God's mercy and hardening are part of His sovereign will, underscoring the concept that salvation is by grace alone, not based on human merit or choice.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 18. Therefore hath he mercy, etc. This is a conclusion stated by the apostle as the result of all the argument. Whom he will he hardeneth. This is not stated in what the Scripture said to Pharaoh, but is a conclusion to which the apostle had arrived, in view of the case of Pharaoh. The word hardeneth means only to harden in the manner specified in the case of Pharaoh. It does not mean to exert a positive influence, but to leave a sinner to his own course, and to place him in circumstances where the character will be more and more developed. See Barnes "Joh 12:40".

Related Verses

More from Romans 9

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