What does God's promise of "wonders" reveal about His character and intentions? Scripture Focus “Then the LORD said, ‘Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will do wonders never before seen in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people among whom you live will see the work of the LORD— for it is an awesome thing that I am going to do with you.’ ” (Exodus 34:10) Setting the Scene • Israel has just broken covenant by worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32). • Moses pleads for mercy; God renews the covenant on Mount Sinai. • The promise of “wonders” is God’s opening statement in this renewed relationship. The Promise Described • “I am making a covenant” — God initiates and guarantees the relationship. • “Before all your people” — the wonders will be unmistakably public. • “Never before seen in all the earth” — the scale is unprecedented. • “All the people … will see the work of the LORD” — the miracles will point unmistakably to Him. • “It is an awesome thing that I am going to do” — the future tense shows certain fulfillment. What This Reveals About God’s Character • Faithful Covenant-Keeper – He restores a people who just failed Him (Psalm 105:8–9). • Supreme Power – Only the Creator can promise unprecedented wonders and deliver (Jeremiah 32:17). • Gracious Mercy – Wonders come after forgiveness, not as a reward for perfection (Psalm 103:8–10). • Holiness and Glory – The purpose is that all nations see His unique majesty (Isaiah 42:8). • Immutability – He later performs similar “wonders” in Christ’s ministry (Acts 2:22) and in future judgment (Revelation 15:1), proving He never changes (Malachi 3:6). What This Reveals About His Intentions • To Confirm His Word – Signs validate His spoken promises (Hebrews 2:4). • To Draw People Into Relationship – Wonders invite faith and obedience (John 20:30–31). • To Display His Glory Among the Nations – Israel becomes a testimony so “all the peoples of the earth may know” (1 Kings 8:60). • To Prepare for Greater Redemption – The Exodus wonders foreshadow Christ’s cross and resurrection, the ultimate sign (Luke 9:31). • To Foster Awe-Filled Worship – His acts are designed to produce reverence, not mere spectacle (Psalm 86:10–12). Living in Light of the Promise • Expect God’s active involvement—He still works wonders in and through His people (Ephesians 3:20). • Walk in covenant obedience—miracles accompany surrendered lives (Mark 16:20). • Share testimonies—His wonders are meant to be seen and spoken of (Psalm 96:3). • Stand in awe—let His past wonders fuel present worship and confident hope for what He will yet do (Habakkuk 1:5). |
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