Exodus 34: Renewing the Covenant
THE CYNICAL STATEMENT of some historians is that treaties are made to be broken. Sadly, that's often been the case. Humanity's record of keeping treaties is abysmal, but nations keep on making treaties, hoping for a more secure future. Israel fell into idolatry and soon broke faith with God (Ex 19:8; 24:3). Likewise, we can recall solemn vows and promises shattered by expediency, fear and unfaithfulness. But God doesn't quit on us. That's not his nature. In this study, he calls Moses to the mountain a second time and reaffirms principles of holy living.
Warming Up to God
Think of an experience in which you were given a second chance. How did it make you feel? Why?
Read Exodus 34. »
Discovering the Word
- In order to meet God, what was required of Moses (vv. 1-3)?
- How would you describe God, based on what he proclaimed to Moses (vv. 6-7)?
- What request did Moses make and why (vv. 8-9)?
- How would you summarize the covenant God made with Israel?
- What effect did this meeting with God have on Moses, the leaders and the people (vv. 29-32)?
- What practice was then established and why (vv. 33-35)?
Applying the Word
- God calls us to live among those who do not honor his name. In what ways can they be a "snare" for us (v. 12)?
- What principles of godly living in the New Testament would correspond to God's concern for Israel here (Gal 5:16-26; Eph 4:20-32)?
Responding in Prayer
Praise God for being a God of second chances.
For Further Study
Extreme Forgiver (Jesus 101 Series) by Bill Donahue and Keri Wyatt Kent