How Did God Gain Glory?
The story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, especially the events surrounding the Red Sea, reveals one of the most striking demonstrations of God’s glory in Scripture. The question “How did God gain glory?” is answered directly in the biblical narrative: God gained glory by displaying His power, justice, and faithfulness in defeating Pharaoh and rescuing His people in a miraculous and undeniable way.
1. God Declared His Purpose in Advance
Before the Red Sea parted, God clearly stated why these events would unfold as they did. He told Moses that He would harden Pharaoh’s heart so that the Egyptian king would pursue Israel. But this pursuit was not a sign of God’s absence—it was part of His plan:
“I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
(Exodus 14:4)
God intended that both Israel and Egypt witness His supreme authority.
2. God Gained Glory by Exposing the Limits of Pharaoh’s Power
In ancient Egypt, Pharaoh was viewed as a god-like figure. His power was absolute. But in the Red Sea event, God showed:
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Pharaoh could not control events.
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Pharaoh’s military might was powerless.
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Pharaoh’s decisions were subject to God’s greater plan.
Each step—from Pharaoh’s pursuit to the confusion of his chariots—revealed the fragility of human power before the divine.
3. God Displayed Glory Through the Miracle of the Sea
When Moses raised his staff and the waters parted, it was an undeniable sign of God’s intervention. Israel walked through walls of water on dry ground—a sight no pagan god or earthly king could match.
Through this miracle:
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God protected His people.
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God demonstrated unmatched sovereignty over nature.
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God visibly revealed His presence and power.
The miracle itself was a dramatic proclamation: The Lord alone is God.
4. God Gained Glory Through the Defeat of Egypt’s Army
God’s glory was manifested not just in saving Israel but also in judging evil. When the Egyptians followed Israel into the sea, God threw them into confusion:
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Wheels jammed.
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Chariots failed.
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Forces collapsed.
Then, by command, the waters returned, swallowing the entire army.
This judgment showed:
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God is a defender of the oppressed.
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God holds powerful nations accountable.
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No enemy can thwart His purposes.
The destruction of Egypt’s mightiest forces was a visible testimony of God’s justice.
5. God Gained Glory by Making His Name Known
The ultimate goal was revealed in God’s words:
“…and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD.”
(Exodus 14:18)
God’s actions served to:
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Teach Egypt that their gods were powerless.
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Teach Israel that their God was faithful and victorious.
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Spread His fame among the nations.
Later biblical books show that distant nations heard of this event and feared Israel’s God. The Red Sea became a global declaration of His holiness, power, and authority.
6. God’s Glory Strengthened the Faith of His People
After witnessing the downfall of Egypt and their own miraculous rescue:
“Israel saw the great power the LORD displayed… so the people feared the LORD and put their trust in Him.”
(Exodus 14:31)
God gained glory in the hearts of His people as their faith deepened and their trust solidified.
Conclusion: How Did God Gain Glory?
God gained glory through:
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Predicting the events and fulfilling His word.
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Overthrowing Pharaoh and exposing the weakness of earthly power.
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Demonstrating miraculous control over creation.
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Executing justice against an oppressive empire.
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Revealing His name to both Israel and the nations.
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Strengthening the faith of His people.
Through the Red Sea event, God showed that He is not only the Deliverer but also the Sovereign Lord over all creation. His glory shone through His power, wisdom, justice, and faithfulness—leaving a story remembered for generations.