How does Moses' veil symbolize our relationship with God through Christ? Setting the Scene at Sinai • Exodus 34:29–35 recounts Moses descending from Sinai with his face shining after speaking with the LORD. • “Whenever Moses went in before the LORD to speak with Him, he would remove the veil until he came out” (Exodus 34:34). • The glow frightened Israel, so Moses veiled his face—signaling distance between a holy God and a sinful people. Why Moses Wore the Veil • Protection: Israel could not bear the radiance of divine glory (cf. Exodus 20:18-21). • Temporary measure: The glory faded; the veil hid a diminishing brilliance (2 Corinthians 3:7). • Symbol of limited access: Only Moses entered God’s presence freely, underscoring the people’s need for a mediator. Moses Unveiled Before the LORD—A Preview of Intimacy in Christ • When Moses stepped into the tent to meet God, he removed the veil—complete openness before the LORD. • This private, unveiled communion anticipates the unrestricted access believers receive through Jesus (Hebrews 10:19-22). The Veil and Human Hearts • Paul explains, “Their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant… Only in Christ is it removed” (2 Corinthians 3:14). • Apart from Christ, a spiritual veil blinds understanding. • In Him, “we all, with unveiled faces, contemplate the Lord’s glory and are being transformed into His image” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Christ, the Better Mediator • At the cross “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51)—God’s initiative opening the way. • Jesus fulfills what Moses foreshadowed: – Perfect, unfading glory (John 1:14). – Permanent mediation (1 Timothy 2:5). – Direct access for every believer (Ephesians 2:18). Living Unveiled Today • Approach God confidently; the barrier is gone (Hebrews 4:16). • Expect transformation—beholding Christ’s glory reshapes character. • Share the unveiled message: “We have such a hope, we are very bold” (2 Corinthians 3:12). • Guard against slipping back into veiled living—replacing grace with self-effort or ritual. • Walk in visible, radiant faith; let others see Christ’s unfading light reflected through you (Matthew 5:16). |
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