Then I will dwell among the Israelites
This phrase signifies God's promise to be present with His people, the Israelites. The concept of God dwelling among His people is central to the covenant relationship established at Sinai. This dwelling is not merely a physical presence but a spiritual and relational one, indicating God's commitment to His chosen people. The tabernacle, which was constructed according to God's instructions, served as the physical manifestation of His presence. This idea of God dwelling among His people is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as "Emmanuel," meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers today continues this theme of God's presence among His people.

and be their God.
This phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. It reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, where He pledged to be their God and the God of their descendants (Genesis 17:7-8). This relationship is characterized by God's sovereignty, protection, and provision, as well as the Israelites' obligation to worship and obey Him. The declaration "I will be their God" is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, underscoring the unique relationship between God and Israel. In the New Testament, this relationship is expanded to include all who believe in Christ, as seen in passages like 2 Corinthians 6:16, where believers are described as the temple of the living God, and He promises to be their God.

1. God (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God who desires to dwell among His people, demonstrating His faithfulness and presence.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are recipients of God's promises and His presence.

3. Tabernacle
The sacred tent where God chose to dwell among the Israelites, symbolizing His presence and holiness.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the tabernacle and the priestly consecration.

5. Priestly Consecration
The event described in Exodus 29, where Aaron and his sons are consecrated as priests to serve in the tabernacle.God's Desire for Relationship
God’s intention to dwell among the Israelites highlights His desire for a personal relationship with His people. This is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, culminating in the incarnation of Christ.

Holiness and Presence
The tabernacle was a place of holiness where God’s presence was manifest. Believers today are called to be holy as God’s dwelling place, reflecting His character in their lives.

Covenant Faithfulness
God’s promise to dwell among the Israelites is a testament to His covenant faithfulness. Believers can trust in God’s promises and His unchanging nature.

The Role of Mediation
The consecration of priests in Exodus 29 points to the need for mediation between God and humanity, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our High Priest.

Living as God’s People
As God dwelt among the Israelites, He called them to live distinctively as His people. Christians are called to live in a way that reflects God’s presence in their lives.(45) I will dwell among the children of Israel.--It must not be supposed that the fulfilment of this promise was effected by the mere presence of the Shechinah within the Tabernacle. It pledged God to a perpetual supervision, care, and tender protection of His people, such as we find actually exercised in the history of the nation.

Verse 45. - I will dwell among the children of Israel. Compare Exodus 25:8. Primarily, the indwelling of the Shechinah in the holy of holies is, no doubt, meant; but the expression need not be limited to this. God would be present with his people in manifold ways - to direct, sustain, enlighten, defend, and save them. And will be their God. Compare Exodus 6:7. What treasures of love, protection, bounty, tenderness, and pardon, are there in this phrase!

Parallel Commentaries ...


Then I will dwell
וְשָׁ֣כַנְתִּ֔י (wə·šā·ḵan·tî)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7931: To settle down, abide, dwell

among
בְּת֖וֹךְ (bə·ṯō·wḵ)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8432: A bisection, the centre

the Israelites
בְּנֵ֣י (bə·nê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

and be
וְהָיִ֥יתִי (wə·hā·yî·ṯî)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

their God.
לֵאלֹהִֽים׃ (lê·lō·hîm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative


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OT Law: Exodus 29:45 I will dwell among the children (Exo. Ex)