Exodus 20 Commentary
The Creator God is like no other. Chapters 19 and 20 exist to specifically distinguish the God of Abraham from the rest. His laws are righteous. Purity runs through them all.
Not too long from today, Aaron would make a golden calf as Israel’s God. Then Israel will have a wicked party – without moral restraint. The pagan gods don’t mind; they demand it. But these chapters spell out the character of the God of Abraham for humanity.
Adultery and fornication are forbidden.
Anything that has an appearance of evil, including indecent exposure while at the place of worship is forbidden. Purity is of utmost importance. Verse 20. The altar shall not be constructed in a way that aids evil thoughts as people see things they shouldn’t see.
There shouldn’t be pornography at the altar of sacrifice! Remove any resemblance of sin!
The background thought is that pagan worship systems include nudity and orgies with zero moral restraint. Brothels & Cousins Co. is incorporated as a worship system! The saint must know!
Chapter 20 brings out the unique nature of Abraham’s God. He won’t be worshipped like pagan gods. No images, symbols, or representations shall be used. The LORD God is generous enough and allows Israel to erect altars but they shouldn’t fashion it stylishly, lest it becomes another image.
Exclusivity of deity. He exists alone. Israel hasn’t seen any form, shape, or image. Incredibly intense but nothing! Terrifyingly present but no substance to take home as evidence! Neither the mountain nor the fire on it; neither the thunder nor the smoke; neither the loud trumpet blast nor the shaking of the Mountain. Yes, we have the voice, but we also have the cloud and lightning.
No images; worship nothing else – exclusivity underlines again.
Don’t give God a bad name. Or, act and live the name. Or, don’t abuse the name. Or, don’t use the name for vanity. Or, maintain the good name of the LORD. Or, don’t use the name of the LORD God the way pagans use the names of their gods. We could apply this Law or instruction in many ways but the main point is to declare: “Hallowed be your name”.
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