Who was being hardened in the first century to demonstrate God’s glory and ensure the real Passover? Ironically, it was the nation of Israel who was being hardened in the first century to accomplish God’s redemptive plan (John 12:39–41; Acts 28:27). Although already a rebellious nation, Israel was blinded by God to ensure His promise was fulfilled. Romans 9:17 For Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’
