Exodus 19 Commentary
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The LORD begins by repeating the history-long blessing to the nation of Israel. The nation is reminded of the mighty acts against Egypt. The LORD would remain faithful and keep Israel apart and to Himself but Israel must be obedient and obey the commands. The LORD has just demonstrated His commitment towards the contract by delivering Israel.
Moses as the spokesman must be trusted so the LORD deliberately sets up a show of approval for Moses. The chapter envisions a nation of priests – all of them. So the entire nation is invited to bask in the glory of God. We can still see the same puzzle as we saw with Cain. Throw but keep. Keep but throw. Keep and throw at the same time. The LORD wants Israel but Israel is still dirty and must not get too close.
This chapter shows us just how difficult it is to draw closer to the LORD. We saw it at the burning bush. Moses was commanded to keep a distance. And here the people must keep a distance. You would easily appreciate the cross. Here the LORD descends as man and we can even share a meal together. For sure the LORD of Sinai Hill is different from the LORD of Calvary Hill. But they are the same!
The sight is terrifyingly sacred. We can clearly see that apart from Moses, there is simply no way for the rest. We are very far from the LORD who dined with Abraham. Something must be done. The days of the Christ who dines with humanity are anticipated here, if not missed.
But in the immediate context Israel must learn ways and means of interacting with the LORD. The contract signed between the LORD and Abraham gets more details but that is for the following chapter.
Sufficient to say chapters 19 and 20 kick-start an important phase for Israel.
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