(1) Structure
(NET) The point is that sinfulness prevents the active presence of the LORD leading his people. But then the rest of chap. 33 forms the development. In vv. 7–11 there is the gracious provision: the LORD reveals through his faithful mediator. The LORD was leading his people, but now more remotely because of their sin. Then, in vv. 12–17 Moses intercedes for the people, and the intercession of the mediator guarantees the LORD’s presence...Finally, the presence of the LORD is verified to the mediator by a special revelation (18–23).
(2) Petitions of Moses
a. 33:13a Now if I have found favor in your sight, show me your way, that I may know you, that I may continue to find favor in your sight.
(NET)...“show me, reveal to me, teach or inform me.” Moses wanted to know more of God’s dealings with people, especially after all that has happened in the preceding chapter.
...that I may understand what your nature and character is, and shape my petitions accordingly, so that I may find grace in your sight, and my future prayers may be answered
b. v.13b
And see that this nation is your people.”
(NET) a request for God to acknowledge Israel as his people by providing the divine leadership needed.
Principle: What does being the people of God mean was to have God to be their leader. Without His presence His leadership Moses requested to know His way so that they could follow His leadership.
Reflection: Believers in the NT are also the people of God (although we are not Israel). It is more than a title. Do we follow the leadership of God? Do you long for His leadership like Moses did? Do you study or inquire of His way so that you can follow Him?
c. After Moses' request was granted and God promised to go with him v.14, 17 he further requested to see God's glory.
33:19 And the LORD said, “I will make all my goodness pass before your face, and I will proclaim the LORD by name before you; I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy.”
The glory of God was manifested by: His goodness, and His name.
The glory of God was manifested by: His goodness, and His name.
(NET) ...proclamation of who Yahweh is. The “name of Yahweh”... refers to his divine attributes revealed to his people, either in word or deed. What will be focused on first will be his grace and compassion.
... “to be gracious, show favor”...means to grant favor or grace to someone, grace meaning unmerited favor. All of God’s dealings are gracious, but especially in forgiving sins and granting salvation it is critical.
...“show compassion, tender mercy.” It is a word that is related to the noun “womb,” the connection being in providing care and protection for that which is helpless and dependent—a motherly quality.
Reflection: God said He will make His goodness pass before Moses. His goodness was part of His glory. We have no doubt of what He brought to us in our lives. He meant for good!
Reflection: God said He will make His goodness pass before Moses. His goodness was part of His glory. We have no doubt of what He brought to us in our lives. He meant for good!
God is also gracious and merciful. Thank God for His forgiveness of our sin and care for us like a mother.
Audrey
Comments