oses is called up into the mountain, The people promise
obedience. (1-8) The glory of the Lord appears. (9-11) Moses
goes up into the mountain. (12-18)
Verses 1-8: A solemn covenant was made between God and Israel. Very
solemn it was, typifying the covenant of grace between God and
believers, through Christ. As soon as God separated to himself a
peculiar people, he governed them by a written word, as he has
done ever since. God's covenants and commands are so just in
themselves, and so much for our good, that the more we think of
them, and the more plainly and fully they are set before us, the
more reason we may see to comply with them. The blood of the
sacrifice was sprinkled on the altar, on the book, and on the
people. Neither their persons, their moral obedience, nor
religious services, would meet with acceptance from a holy God,
except through the shedding and sprinkling' of blood. Also the
blessings granted unto them were all of mercy; and the Lord
would deal with them in kindness. Thus the sinner, by faith in
the blood of Christ, renders willing and acceptable obedience.
Verses 9-11: The elders saw the God of Israel; they had some glimpse of
his glory, though whatever they saw, it was something of which
no image or picture could be made, yet enough to satisfy them
that God was with them of a truth. Nothing is described but what
was under his feet. The sapphires are the pavement under his
feet; let us put all the wealth of this world under our feet,
and not in our hearts. Thus the believer sees in the face of
Jesus Christ, far clearer discoveries of the glorious justice
and holiness of God, than ever he saw under terrifying
convictions; and through the Saviour, holds communion with a
holy God.
Verses 12-18: A cloud covered the mount six days; a token of God's
special presence there. Moses was sure that he who called him up
would protect him. Even those glorious attributes of God which
are most terrible to the wicked, the saints with humble
reverence rejoice in. And through faith in the atoning
Sacrifice, we hope for greater honour than Moses ever enjoyed on
earth. Now we see through a glass darkly, but when he shall
appear, then face to face. This vision of God will continue with
equal, if not increasing brightness of joy; not for a few days
only, but through eternity.
oses is called up into the mountain, The people promise
obedience. (1-8) The glory of the Lord appears. (9-11) Moses
goes up into the mountain. (12-18)