Exodus 34:34 KJV

But when Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he took the vail off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded.

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Exodus 34:34 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Exodus 34:34

Exodus 34:34 states: “But whenever Moses went in before the Lord to speak with Him, he would take the veil off until he came out. And when he came out, he would tell the people of Israel what he was commanded.” This verse encapsulates a profound moment in the life of Moses and signifies the transformative encounter between the divine and human.

Contextual Background

Exodus 34 follows the sin of the golden calf and Moses' intercession for the people. After receiving the new tablets with the commandments, Moses’ face shone with the glory of God, reflecting His divine presence. The veil serves as a symbol of the transition between the divine communion and the people’s understanding of God’s holiness.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of Moses’ communion with God. He notes that the veil Moses wore was both a protective measure for the Israelites and a sign of the lesser glory that characterized the old covenant.

  • Communion and Reflection: Henry states that the veil symbolized the separation between God’s full glory and human incapacity to behold it directly. Moses’ face shone due to having been in the presence of God, which illustrates the transformative power of divine fellowship.
  • The Role of Mediation: The veil can be interpreted as a form of mediation. Moses served as a mediator between God and Israel, communicating the divine commands while shielding the people from the overwhelming holiness of God.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes elaborates on the implications of the glory that radiated from Moses. He interprets this passage as an illustration of the changing nature of the covenants.

  • Old versus New Covenant: Barnes highlights that the glory of Moses was temporary and fading, serving as a precursor to the eternal glory revealed in Christ. This serves to underline the limitations of the Law compared to the grace offered in the New Testament.
  • God's Communication: Barnes notes that Moses communicated God’s directives to the Israelites. This emphasizes the importance of divine revelation and the transmission of God’s word through appointed leaders.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke provides a detailed analysis of the nature of the veil and its implications for understanding divine interaction with humanity.

  • Symbolism of the Veil: Clarke remarks that the veil represented both a physical and spiritual barrier, denoting the limitations imposed by sin. The act of removing the veil upon Moses’ return was a moment of revealing God’s truth to the people.
  • Moral and Spiritual Transformation: He emphasizes that Moses’ radiance was not just physical but also moral, showcasing how deepening our relationship with God transforms our character and enables us to reflect His glory.

Theological Implications

The commentary from these theologians provides several significant theological points for reflection:

  • Presence of God: Exodus 34:34 underscores the importance of seeking the presence of God. Moses’ encounters with God exemplify that genuine communion leads to transformation.
  • Role of Mediators: This verse highlights the necessity of mediators in biblical history. Moses represents a type of Christ, illustrating how Christ ultimately fulfills the role of the mediator between God and humanity.
  • Hope of Transformation: The transformation seen in Moses serves as a hopeful reminder that all who encounter God can be transformed into His likeness and bear His glory to others.

Practical Application

For pastors, theologians, and students, the teachings from Exodus 34:34 invite several applications:

  • Encourage Personal Encounters: Leaders should encourage their congregations to pursue personal encounters with God through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture, which can lead to personal and communal transformation.
  • Reflecting God’s Glory: Believers are called to reflect God’s glory through their actions, embodying the values of the Kingdom by engaging in loving service and sharing the Good News.
  • Understanding Covenant Dynamics: A deeper understanding of the transition from the Old to the New Covenant can enhance theological education, highlighting the relevance of grace in the contemporary faith journey.

Conclusion

Exodus 34:34 serves as a rich theological narrative that encourages readers to reflect on the implications of divine glory, mediation, and transformational encounters with God. Through the insights of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, this passage reminds us of the necessity of approaching God for enlightenment and the privilege of sharing His glory with the world.