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The Context of Exodus 19:16-20
The book of Exodus tells the story of the Israelites’ escape from Egypt and their journey towards the Promised Land. In chapter 19, the Israelites arrive at Mount Sinai where they encounter God. This is where Exodus 19:16-20 takes place.
In the previous verses, God had instructed Moses to consecrate the people and prepare them for His arrival. He also warned them not to touch the mountain or they would die. As the people waited, they saw lightning, heard thunder, and witnessed smoke rising from the mountain.
The Arrival of God
Exodus 19:16-20 describes the arrival of God on Mount Sinai. The passage reads, “On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. Then Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Mount Sinai was covered with smoke, because the Lord descended on it in fire. The smoke billowed up from it like smoke from a furnace, and the whole mountain trembled violently. As the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him.”
The Fearsome Presence of God
The description of God’s arrival on Mount Sinai is fearsome. The thunder, lightning, and trumpet blast would have been overwhelming to the Israelites. The smoke and fire would have been terrifying. The mountain shaking would have been unnerving. It’s no wonder that the people were trembling!
God’s presence was so powerful that Moses had to speak to Him on behalf of the people. The people were not ready to approach God directly. They needed someone to intercede for them.
The Significance of Exodus 19:16-20
Exodus 19:16-20 is significant for a few reasons. Firstly, it shows the power and majesty of God. He is not a tame or controllable deity. He is awe-inspiring and fearsome. This passage reminds us that we should approach God with reverence and respect.
Secondly, this passage foreshadows the coming of Jesus. Just as the people needed Moses to intercede for them, we need Jesus to intercede for us. He is our mediator and the only way we can approach God.
Finally, this passage demonstrates the importance of preparation. The Israelites had to consecrate themselves and prepare for God’s arrival. We too must prepare ourselves for God’s presence in our lives. We must confess our sins, repent, and seek His face.
The Application of Exodus 19:16-20
So how can we apply Exodus 19:16-20 to our lives today? Firstly, we must approach God with reverence and respect. We cannot take His presence for granted. We must also recognize our need for a mediator. We cannot approach God on our own. We need Jesus.
Secondly, we must prepare ourselves for God’s presence. We cannot expect to encounter Him if we are living in sin or not seeking Him. We must confess our sins, repent, and seek His face.
Finally, we must remember that God is not tame or controllable. He is awe-inspiring and fearsome. We should approach Him with humility and a healthy fear of His power.
The Conclusion of Exodus 19:16-20
Exodus 19:16-20 is a powerful passage that reminds us of the majesty and power of God. It also reminds us of our need for a mediator and the importance of preparation. As we approach God, let us do so with reverence and respect. Let us remember that He is not a tame or controllable deity, but an awe-inspiring and fearsome God. May we prepare ourselves for His presence and seek His face with all our hearts.
