How can we experience God's presence like the Israelites in Exodus 24:17? The Glory They Saw “Now the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a consuming fire on the mountaintop in the eyes of the Israelites.” — Exodus 24:17 What Turned Sinai Into Holy Ground • The people were already in covenant relationship (Exodus 24:7–8). • Blood had been applied, symbolizing atonement and consecration. • Moses ascended at God’s explicit invitation, illustrating obedience and mediation. • Boundaries were set around the mountain to protect reverent fear (Exodus 19:12). Christ, the Fulfillment of Sinai • Jesus is the Mediator of a new and better covenant (Hebrews 12:22–24). • His blood does what the sprinkled animal blood only foreshadowed: once-for-all access (Hebrews 9:12). • Through Him we receive the promised Spirit, who brings the very presence of God into believers (John 14:16-17). Practical Pathways to God’s Presence Today • Consistent time in the inspired Word – The Spirit illuminates Scripture, revealing the same glory that shone on Sinai (2 Corinthians 3:7-18). • Sincere worship and praise – God enthrones Himself on the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). • Obedient living – Jesus discloses Himself to those who keep His commands (John 14:21). • Fellowship with other believers – Where two or three gather in Christ’s name, He is present (Matthew 18:20). • Regular remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice – The Lord’s Supper proclaims His death and invites fresh encounter (1 Corinthians 11:26). Guardrails for a Holy Encounter • Reverence: Approach with the awareness that the same consuming fire still defines His holiness (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Repentance: Unconfessed sin quenches awareness of His nearness (Psalm 66:18; 1 John 1:9). • Faith: Believe His promise to draw near when we draw near (James 4:8). Living in Ever-Present Glory The Israelites saw His glory for a moment; believers indwelt by the Spirit carry that glory continually (Colossians 1:27). As we saturate ourselves in Scripture, walk in obedience, and gather in worship, we experience the living God whose presence has not dimmed since Sinai. |
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