Romans 9:17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. 18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardens.
A thorough understanding of the above issue will not only clear up major theological sticking points as pertains to the issue with pharaoh, but it will shed great light on the ways, means, and methods God employs in the salvation of souls for if we would receive it, God was actually trying to save pharaoh, just as much as He was trying to save Judas.
However, before we proceed, we should lay a solid foundation for our study, by observing a few facts about God. God’s omniscience, which is His singular ability to read, and understand future events with pinpoint accuracy, does not lead Him to manipulate our hearts and minds, in order to get His will done, in the overwhelming majority of cases.
God plans, and executes His plans based upon what He has foreseen persons will choose to do anyway, of their own volition. But in most cases, persons will do what God says they would do, not because God would manipulate their decision-making process for His predictions to come through, but because His foreknowledge of events and persons is accurate.
Romans 9:19 Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!