Continuous Light and Justice Under Law: God's Commandments to Moses

This chapter underlines the importance of upholding God's commandments, not just in spiritual rituals, but also in our interactions with others. It underscores the equality of all before God's law and the importance of respecting life, property, and the sanctity of God's name.

1. Command to Keep Lamps Burning (Verses 1-3)

The LORD instructs Moses to have the Israelites bring pure olive oil for the continuous burning of lamps. Aaron is appointed to tend these lamps before the LORD, marking this as a perpetual responsibility.

2. The Showbread Ritual (Verses 4-9)

God commands Moses to prepare twelve loaves of bread to be set out every Sabbath day as an offering. The bread is to be eaten by Aaron and his sons in a holy place as a sacred part of the offerings.

3. Blasphemy Punishment (Verses 10-12)

The narrative tells of a fight between the son of an Israelite woman and an Egyptian father and an Israelite, during which the man blasphemes. The people, unsure of how to handle this, place the man in custody until the LORD’s will is known.

4. Law of Recompense (Verses 13-22)

The LORD outlines the laws of retribution, including the ultimate punishment for blasphemy and laws for causing harm or death to others. The same laws apply to both foreign residents and natives.

5. Execution of the Blasphemer (Verses 23)

The chapter concludes with the Israelites following the LORD's command to stone the blasphemer outside the camp.

This chapter unfolds as the LORD imparts more commandments to Moses concerning the spiritual and legal practices of the Israelites. These instructions are designed to guide the Israelites in their daily life, worship, and interactions with each other, underpinning the importance of respecting God's law and each other.

1. Obedience to God's Commands
2. Continuous Worship
3. Consequences of Sin
4. Equality before the Law
5. Respect for Life and Property1. Command to keep the lamps burning
2. The preparation of showbread
3. Blasphemy and its punishment
4. Restitution for causing harm or death
5. The concept of equal justice1. The LORD
2. Moses
3. Aaron
4. The son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father
5. Shelomith, the mother of the blasphemer
6. Israelites1. Tent of Meeting
2. The Camp

1. What is the significance of the command to keep the lamps burning continually? How does this apply to our lives today?

2. How does the ritual of showbread represent our relationship with God? How can this be related to the modern Christian practice of communion?

3. How did the Israelites initially respond when the man blasphemed the Name? What does this teach about seeking God's will before acting?

4. What does the punishment for the blasphemer reveal about how seriously God takes His Name? How does this shape your understanding of using God's name respectfully?

5. How do the laws of recompense reflect on the value of life, property, and personal integrity in God's eyes?

6. How do these laws encourage responsibility and accountability in society?

7. The same laws were applied to both foreigners and natives. How does this reflect God's perspective on justice and equality?

8. In today's context, how can we apply the principle of 'eye for an eye' without resorting to physical retribution?

9. How do the instructions to Moses about the lampstand and showbread relate to the concept of continuous worship?

10. How does the serious punishment for blasphemy in the Old Testament correlate with New Testament teachings about the Holy Spirit?

11. How does the story of the blasphemer challenge us to think about our words and actions?

12. How might the principle of making restitution when harm is done inform modern legal or social practices?

13. Can you see parallels between the laws given by God here and current legal systems? What are they?

14. How can we reconcile the harsh punishments outlined in this chapter with God's nature as a God of love and forgiveness?

15. What role does repentance play in crimes against God or other people, according to the Bible?

16. In what ways can believers today ensure they are respecting the Name of the LORD?

17. How can we apply the principles of these laws to disagreements or conflicts in our own lives?

18. How can we demonstrate respect for life and property in today's society?

19. What are some ways in which believers can make restitution or seek forgiveness when they have wronged someone?

20. How can we use the teaching of this chapter to examine our own hearts and actions, particularly in terms of how we treat others and respect God's commands?