What does Exodus 34:34 teach about direct communication with God? “But whenever Moses went before the LORD to speak with Him, he would remove the veil until he came out. And when he came out and told the Israelites what he had been commanded,” Direct, Unveiled Conversation • Moses steps “before the LORD to speak with Him.” – The wording is literal: Moses actually enters God’s presence and talks with Him. – No intermediary is needed in that moment; it is a personal, back-and-forth exchange (cf. Exodus 33:11; Numbers 12:6-8). • He “removes the veil until he came out.” – The veil symbolizes separation. When Moses is with God, the barrier is lifted. – Only after leaving God’s presence does he cover his radiant face (Exodus 34:35). – The action highlights that nothing should stand between a person and God when genuine communication is taking place. God Speaks, Moses Listens, Israel Hears • “When he came out he told the Israelites what he had been commanded.” – Moses does not add, subtract, or reinterpret. He relays God’s exact words, underscoring the reliability of divine revelation. – Direct communication with God carries the responsibility to pass on His message faithfully (cf. Deuteronomy 4:2). Broader Biblical Echoes of Unveiled Access • Old-covenant preview – Exodus 33:11: “The LORD would speak with Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.” – Numbers 12:8: God distinguishes Moses by saying, “I speak with him face to face, clearly and not in riddles.” • New-covenant fulfillment – 2 Corinthians 3:12-18: In Christ “we all, with unveiled faces, reflect the glory of the Lord.” Paul uses Moses’ veil to show how believers now enjoy the same open access. – Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” What Moses experienced individually is offered corporately to every believer through Jesus’ priestly work (Hebrews 10:19-22). Key Truths About Direct Communication with God • God desires personal, unhindered fellowship with His people. • Barriers arise from human sin, not divine reluctance; God provides the means to remove them. • Direct encounters transform the listener (Moses’ shining face), compelling a life of obedience and faithful witness. • Under the new covenant, every believer is invited into the same unveiled presence Moses tasted, through the once-for-all mediation of Christ. Living the Reality Today • Enter boldly: Christ’s blood secures your welcome—use it daily. • Listen attentively: Scripture remains the primary venue for God’s direct speech. • Respond obediently: What God says in the secret place is meant to be lived and shared in public. |
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