Majesty and Grace

Majesty and Grace Exodus 20:18-26 Context 1. We return to Mount Sinai where God has thundered His ten commands. 2. The people will remain at this location for several more months while Moses receives more divine revelation. 3. The people are shattered by God’s appearance. God’s response is unexpected on a few different levels, but the governing rule is grace. God, who dwells in unapproachable light, wants to be approached. 4. Today’s Outline: Israel’s Reaction, God’s Reassurance, and Christ’s Revelation. Israel’s Response 1. They saw the “lightening”: unusual word used only one other time, see Genesis 15:17. 2. They heard “the voice” – many waters (Ezekiel 1:24), thunder (Job 40:9), great earthquake (Ezekiel 3:12), roaring lion (Revelation 10:3) 3. They trembled in fear: • • Moses Immediately After – Do not fear for your lives, but have an awesome regard for God (Psalm 111:10) Moses after 40 Years – Deuteronomy 5:23:ff God’s Reassurance 1. What is type of altar is this? • • Option #1: A temporary altar until the tabernacle is built Option #2: Any common altar anywhere for anyone – see Joshua 8:31; 1 Samuel 7:17; 1 Kings 18:32 2. What is unique about this design? • • • • Inexpensive: free, in fact; precious metals are prohibited; simply use any soil or rocks at your disposal Simple: uncut, unknapped, and unchiseled Modest: even accidental nakedness prohibited Blessed: “I will come to you and I will bless you.” The “you’s” are singular – God has you personally in mind. Christ’s Revelation 1. Let’s Return to the People’s Request – You speak to us • • • Moses talks about that scene in three places: Exodus 20:18-21; Deuteronomy 5:23ff; and Deuteronomy 18:16-19 The people are asking for a Prophet Moses Promises a future Prophet of divine quality 2. Israel Considered this Prophet to be the Messiah – see John 1:21; John 7:40 3. Jesus Claimed to be that prophet – John 12:49 4. Peter Claimed that Jesus is that Prophet – Acts 3:19-23 5. Application: heed the words of this Prophet