Pharaoh: Resisting God’s Purposes

Pharaoh of Egypt defied God’s command to release the Israelites from slavery, resulting in devastating plagues and the death of Egypt’s firstborns (Exodus 5-12). His stubbornness ultimately led to the drowning of his armies in the Red Sea. As Romans 9:17 reveals, Pharaoh was raised to display God’s power through his downfall.

In a vivid and imaginative reenactment, the grandeur of Pharaoh’s presence was brought to life. Dressed in traditional Egyptian regalia, befitting the culture of his time, Pharaoh was to be ceremoniously introduced. As a ruler of great renown, it was essential to honor his status with a detailed profile and apposite appellations.

The Master of Ceremonies stepped forward, building anticipation: “We have King Pharaoh in our midst!” he announced, his voice commanding attention. “To honor his greatness, I would like to invite his royal spokesperson, Okyeame Musa, to properly introduce and usher him to the stage. Remember, all authority is ordained by God. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming Okyeame Musa!”

The audience erupted in applause, the clapping and cheers resonating as though Pharaoh’s presence alone was a monumental occasion.

Okyeame Musa took his place with dignity, addressing the gathering:
“Thank you, Mr. MC. His Royal Highness, King Pharaoh, began his reign at the tender age of seven and ruled until the age of ninety-nine, becoming one of Egypt’s longest-serving monarchs. Under his leadership, Egypt rose to global prominence, bringing Africa to the forefront of the world stage. It is my singular honor to present to you the Great King Pharaoh!”

As drums rolled and echoed with a cultural rhythm, the audience stood in ovation, ushering Pharaoh to the stage with regal pomp and ceremony.

Pharaoh began his speech with unexpected humility:
“Saying I am happy to be here is an understatement. I thank the organizers of this dialogue that seeks to draw lessons from those of us who made grave mistakes in their relationship with God. My story is not much different.”

The audience acknowledged his candid admission with respectful applause. Pharaoh’s narrative was a stark reminder of Romans 13: all leadership is ordained by God, and leaders are accountable to Him. Yet Pharaoh had gone beyond mere disobedience, challenging the Almighty to a contest of power—a challenge that ended in his undoing.

In his address, Pharaoh reflected solemnly:
“I will speak briefly, urging you all to align your lives with the will of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords. True power belongs to Him alone. I sought to prove the might of Egypt’s gods, but I did not realize the supremacy of the God Moses served. Never build an empire that is not accountable to God. Ask my brother Nebuchadnezzar, and he will tell you: God rules in the affairs of men.”

With these final royal words, Pharaoh expressed his gratitude for the invitation and departed the stage. Per African tradition, questioning a king in public was taboo, leaving the eager audience to ponder and reflect on his wisdom in silence.

Pharaoh’s story serves as a warning: resisting God’s will leads to ultimate failure. No power can stand against the Almighty, and no purpose of His can be thwarted. To walk with God is to walk in alignment with destiny; to resist Him is to fall into ruin.