Exodus 33: Consequences of Idolatry

I. Introduction: It is indeed revealing to critically study the Book of Exodus, particularly Chapter 33, as it unveils the Divine Journey of the Israelites, their relationship with God, and the unique intimacy that Moses, their leader, shared with God. This chapter portrays the dramatic yet inspiring journey of a people chosen by God and a leader who stood as an intercessor between a holy God and a rebellious people.

II. Establishment of Divine Covenant (Exodus 33:1-3)

The Lord addresses Moses directly, reminding him of His promise to lead the Israelites to a land of abundance, a covenant He established with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant can be linked to Genesis 12:1-3. However, God declares He will not dwell among them due to their stiff-necked nature, a depiction of the recurring theme of humanity’s rebellion against God’s will seen in Genesis 3:6.

III. Consequence of Idolatry (Exodus 33:4-6)

The Israelites are grief-stricken by God’s pronouncement and divest of their ornaments in penance for their idolatry in Exodus 32. The consequences of idol worship are sternly cautioned in Leviticus 26:1. The Israelites’ actions here illustrate the painful outcomes of disobedience and rebellion against God.

IV. The Tent of Meeting – A Place of Divine Encounter (Exodus 33:7-11)

Moses erects the Tent of Meeting, a space where people sought the Lord. Moses’ close relationship with God can be compared to Abraham’s friendship with God in Genesis 18:17-19. The sight of the Lord speaking to Moses face-to-face, like a man speaks with a friend, underscores the extraordinary communion Moses had with God.

V. Moses, the Intercessor (Exodus 33:12-17)

Moses’ profound intercession for the people is seen as he pleads with God for His divine presence to accompany them. This act of intercession parallels Christ’s role as an intercessor for humanity in 1 Timothy 2:5. Moses’ intimacy with God is further emphasized as God promises His presence and rest because He is pleased with Moses.

VI. Moses’ Desire for God’s Glory (Exodus 33:18-23)

Moses’ request to see God’s glory is granted, presenting a lesson of divine mercy and grace. His longing for God’s glory mirrors David’s desire in Psalm 27:4. God assures Moses that His goodness will pass before him, but He also shields Moses, emphasizing that no man can see Him and live. This shows God’s glory is overwhelming for human comprehension, as stated in 1 Timothy 6:16.

VII. Conclusion: The review of Exodus 33 presents an enlightening journey of divine encounters, profound intercession, and God’s mercy and glory. It reiterates God’s faithfulness to His covenant, the repercussions of idolatry, the significance of a meeting place with God, and the remarkable relationship Moses shared with God. Most importantly, it offers believers a model of leadership in Moses, who despite his own shortcomings, continually sought the face of God for himself and his people.