What is the meaning of Exodus 20:21? And the people stood at a distance The scene comes right after the giving of the Ten Commandments. Israel has just heard “thunder and lightning, a trumpet, and the mountain in smoke” (Exodus 20:18). • The people’s choice to step back highlights awe‐filled fear. Their reaction mirrors Deuteronomy 5:23-27, when they begged Moses to speak for God so they would not die. • Hebrews 12:18-21 recalls this same trembling assembly to contrast law and grace—showing that their distance underscores the unapproachability of God apart from a mediator. • The literal setting teaches us reverence. God’s holiness is not casual; even New Testament believers are urged, “Let us offer to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28-29). as Moses approached Moses alone steps forward—already identified by God in Exodus 19:3-6 as the covenant mediator. • Exodus 24:1-2 will repeat this solitary ascent, underscoring Moses’ unique role. • His approach foreshadows the greater Mediator, Jesus, who “entered the Most Holy Place once for all” (Hebrews 9:12). • The pattern: people remain back, mediator draws near, covenant is confirmed. This sequence affirms both the need for and the sufficiency of divinely appointed mediation. the thick darkness The phrase signals the tangible manifestation of God’s presence. • Earlier, Exodus 20:21 said God descended “in thick cloud.” Here it is intensified: “thick darkness.” • 1 Kings 8:12 notes, “The LORD has said that He would dwell in thick darkness,” showing continuity in how He veils His glory. • Psalm 97:2 adds, “Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are His throne’s foundation.” Darkness, then, is not evil but a protective covering of overwhelming holiness. • Deuteronomy 4:11 reminds Israel that the mountain “burned with fire to the heart of the heavens, amid darkness, cloud, and thick gloom,” tying the imagery directly to Sinai. where God was Despite the darkness, Scripture states plainly that God Himself is present. • Exodus 33:14-23 will clarify that no one can see His full glory and live, yet He graciously reveals as much as His people can bear. • The juxtaposition of darkness and divine presence teaches that God’s nearness is both intimate and guarded. Even under the new covenant, we still approach a holy God—yet now we do so “by the blood of Jesus” (Hebrews 10:19-22). • 2 Corinthians 4:6 captures the paradox: “God… has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ.” He is the Light, yet He chooses to conceal Himself in darkness for our protection. summary Exodus 20:21 presents a vivid snapshot of covenant worship: • Israel’s distance reveals the rightful fear of sinful humanity before a holy God. • Moses’ advance showcases the necessity of a mediator. • The thick darkness emphasizes God’s awe‐inspiring, unapproachable glory. • God’s personal presence in that darkness assures His commitment to be with His people. Taken together, the verse teaches that holiness and grace meet at Sinai—anticipating the ultimate meeting at Calvary, where our greater Mediator brings us near “to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). |
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