Romans 9:17

The scripture saith. The Scriptures are personified in this common formula of quotation (see also Gal. 3:8, 22). In Romans 9:15 Paul used the words “he saith,” that is, God saith, to introduce the quotation of God’s words to Moses.

Even for this same purpose. Rather, “for this very purpose.” What the purpose was is stated in the rest of the verse. The quotation is from Ex. 9:16, with some variations, and is part of the words addressed through Moses to Pharaoh after the plague of boils.

Raised ... up. Greek exegeird. The only other NT occurrence of this verb is in 1 Cor. 6:14, where it is used to describe the raising of the dead. From an examination of the context of Ex. 9:16 some consider the passage to mean “I have raised you from sickness,” that is, Pharaoh had not perished in the plagues thus far. Though because of his rebellious character the king probably deserved to be destroyed, God preserved his life and through him accomplished His purpose. Others see a more general reference to God’s bringing Pharaoh upon the stage of history (cf. Hab. 1:6; Zech. 11:16), and through him accomplishing a specific purpose. See on Ex. 9:16.

One thing this passage definitely does not mean is that God had predestined Pharaoh to a life of rebellion and final destruction. Such an interpretation would be wholly contrary to the rest of Scripture (see on Rom. 8:29; see PP 267). The question under consideration is not Pharaoh’s personal salvation but Pharaoh’s position as leader of one of the greatest nations of his time. God works through nations and their leaders to accomplish His purposes on earth (see on Dan. 4:17).

Shew my power in thee. A literal translation of Ex. 9:16 reads, “show you my power.” Paul’s reading agrees with the LXX. The continued stubbornness of Pharaoh led to ever greater manifestations of divine power, until finally even the haughty monarch himself was forced to admit the superior power of God (Ex. 9:27). The Greek word dunamis, used here for “power,” means “might,” or “strength.”

Might be declared. Or, “might be published abroad.” This purpose of God is still being fulfilled wherever the book of Exodus is read.