What is the meaning of Exodus 23:22? But if you will listen carefully to his voice • The call is for attentive, deliberate listening, not casual hearing. Similar language appears in Deuteronomy 28:1—“If you will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God…”. • God had just promised to send His angel before Israel (Exodus 23:20-21), so “his voice” points to God’s appointed messenger who carries divine authority. • Jesus later affirms this principle: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). Consistent, careful listening is a hallmark of genuine relationship with God. and do everything I say • Obedience flows from listening. James 1:22 reminds believers, “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only”. • The scope is “everything,” indicating comprehensive submission, echoed in Joshua 1:7-8 as Joshua is charged to observe “all the law.” • Blessing and victory are tied to obedience throughout Scripture, from Genesis 22:18 to John 14:15, where Jesus says, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments”. I will be an enemy to your enemies • God personally commits to oppose those who oppose His obedient people. This promise reflects Genesis 12:3—“I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you”. • In practical terms, Israel saw this in Egypt (Exodus 14:24-25) and later in Canaan (Joshua 10:11). • For believers today, Romans 8:31 offers the same assurance in Christ: “If God is for us, who can be against us?”. and a foe to your foes • The repetition intensifies the promise. God does not merely defend; He actively takes the offensive against the adversaries of His covenant people. • Psalm 35:1 captures this: “Contend, O LORD, with my contenders; fight against those who fight against me”. • Revelation 19:11 shows the ultimate fulfillment when Christ rides forth as the Faithful and True warrior on behalf of His saints. summary Exodus 23:22 ties attentive hearing to wholehearted obedience, promising that those who submit to God’s voice will experience His active, powerful protection. The verse assures believers that God not only guards but aggressively opposes every force set against His faithful people. |
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