What can we learn from Moses' example of speaking "face to face" with God? The Scene in Exodus 33:11 “Thus the LORD would speak with Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend.” (Exodus 33:11) What “Face to Face” Reveals about God – Personal: The Almighty chooses genuine friendship, not distant protocol (Deuteronomy 34:10). – Audible and Clear: No riddles, no guesswork (Numbers 12:8). – Accessible: A foretaste of the openness later secured through Christ (Hebrews 4:16). Keys That Positioned Moses for Intimate Dialogue • A set place of meeting—the tent of meeting (Exodus 33:7): he scheduled communion. • Separation from distraction—outside the camp, away from clamor. • Reverent obedience—Moses carried out every command exactly (Exodus 40:16). • Intercessory heart—he pleaded for Israel before seeking anything for himself (Exodus 32:31-32). • Humility—“Now Moses was a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth” (Numbers 12:3). Fruit Produced by Face-to-Face Fellowship – Fresh guidance for the people (Exodus 33:13-17). – Visible transformation: the radiant face (Exodus 34:29-30; 2 Corinthians 3:7). – Courage to confront Pharaoh, Amalek, even Israel’s idolatry. – Written revelation: the Law was delivered in the context of these encounters. Christ Opens the Same Invitation • Jesus calls disciples “friends” (John 15:15). • His torn veil grants unfettered access (Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 10:19-22). • The Spirit inside believers surpasses the external glory Moses knew (2 Corinthians 3:8-11). Practical Takeaways for Today – Set a regular “tent of meeting” time and place; consistency cultivates familiarity. – Prioritize God’s presence over His gifts; seek the Giver first (Psalm 27:4). – Approach with confidence yet humility, knowing the same Lord speaks plainly through His Word and Spirit. – Expect transformation: intimacy with God inevitably shapes conduct, countenance, and convictions. – Intercede for others; friendship with God naturally overflows in concern for His people. Verses for Further Meditation Exodus 33:7-23; Numbers 12:6-8; Deuteronomy 34:10; Psalm 103:7; John 15:15; 2 Corinthians 3:7-18; Hebrews 4:16. |
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