A common misinterpretation views this verse as God arbitrarily compelling Pharaoh's disobedience to justify wrath, portraying divinity as manipulative or sadistic rather than responding to Pharaoh's already hardened heart from prior refusals; others might apply it out of context to endorse modern coercion or divine favoritism in conflicts, ignoring the broader themes of covenant mercy, repeated chances for repentance, and God's ultimate goal of revealing Himself to both Egypt and Israel for their potential salvation.
Exodus 7:4
King James Version (1769)
4 But Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine armies, and my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments.
This passage reveals God's sovereign plan in the Exodus narrative, foretelling Pharaoh's refusal to heed Moses and Aaron so that divine power is unmistakably displayed through escalating judgments on Egypt, culminating in Israel's deliverance; it underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, His authority over nations and rulers, and His purpose to execute justice against oppression while redeeming His people as a testimony to His might.