How does Exodus 24:2 illustrate the importance of approaching God with reverence? Respecting God’s holiness • Exodus 24:2 states, “Moses alone is to approach the LORD, but the others are not to come near. And the people may not go up with him.” • By commanding distance, the LORD underscores His absolute holiness (Isaiah 6:3; Psalm 111:9). • The separation reminds Israel—and us—that God is not common or approachable on human terms. Reverence begins with recognizing His other-ness. Recognizing the role of a mediator • Only Moses, the God-appointed mediator, may draw near. • This foreshadows the one Mediator, Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:24). • Reverence means submitting to God’s appointed way of access rather than inventing our own. Obedience expresses reverence • The elders and people show respect by staying within the limits God sets. • Leviticus 10:1-3 (Nadab and Abihu) demonstrates the danger of ignoring those limits. • Genuine awe is proven by careful obedience to every word God speaks (John 14:15). Approaching with prepared hearts • Before Moses ascends, the covenant is ratified with sacrifice and the people declare, “All the words that the LORD has spoken we will do.” (Exodus 24:3) • Sacrifice, confession, and commitment precede drawing near; reverence is never casual (Psalm 24:3-4). Living the lesson today • Approach God with a conscious awareness of His holiness—avoid flippant language or attitudes in worship. • Rely wholly on Christ, the greater Moses, for access to the Father (Hebrews 4:14-16). • Cultivate obedience: examine Scripture, heed its commands, and repent quickly when you stray. • Foster solemnity when gathering with God’s people—silence, thoughtful prayer, and orderly worship reflect Exodus 24:2’s pattern. Key takeaways • God sets the terms for approach. • Reverence requires distance unless He provides a mediator. • Obedience and holiness remain the proper response when we draw near to Him. |
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