Moses Makes The Second Set of Commandments

Exodus 34:1–9
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

This passage gives the sequel to what has gone before. Up to this point in time God had dealt with Israel through His unconditional covenant with Abraham. In that covenant there was nothing in which Israel could keep. There was no conditions and no stipulations attached to it. It was a covenant of pure grace. But now, at Sinai, God purposes another covenant which is conditional. It is a covenant with Israel which must be kept if they were to enjoy the blessings attached to it. This covenant, known as “The Ten Commandments” was to be written on two tables of stone. As you know, because of the wickedness of the people, Moses broke the first tablets of stone which contained these commandments. Nothing but the intercession of a mediator (Moses) could have saved Israel at that time from utter extermination by the wrath of God.

Now in this chapter Moses is invited, by the Lord, to again ascend Mount Sinai with two stone tablets, chiseled like the first ones (vv. 1-4). On the mountain Moses experiences a new vision of the glory of God. God reveals his character to Moses (vv. 5-6). He tells him that His name Yahweh (the Lord) means that He is a God of compassion, grace, loyalty, love, faithfulness and forgiveness, as well as a God of righteousness and judgment. He says he will keep His promises forever, but He will punish anyone who sins including their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren (v. 7). At this Moses bows down and worships the Lord. He admits the people are sinful and rebellious but asks that He will forgive them and allow them to live (vv. 8-9).

Application

It is so easy for me to give up on certain people because of sin in their life? This example of Moses and how God answered his prayers motivates me to continue praying for these people.