Exodus 19:7-8 And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him.… I. THE CALL (ver. 7). 1. The elders represented the people. In dealing with so great a multitude some such arrangement was necessary. So it is in many things — in the nation, the family, the Church. 2. God's commands were faithfully communicated. "Laid before their faces all," etc.: nothing was added and nothing kept back. The will of God was made known so plainly that none could plead ignorance; so particularly that none could plead excuse. The truth was communicated to every man's conscience in the sight of God. II. THE RESPONSE (ver. 8). "And all the people answered together," etc. 1. Prompt. There was no hesitancy. 2. Hearty. There was no reservation. 3. Unanimous. There was no dissentient voice (Acts 2:1). How grand the spectacle! The mighty multitude aa with one heart and voice proclaimed their submission to God. But, alas! the sequel showed, that mixed with their apparent sincerity and enthusiasm there was much of ignorance, presumption, and self-conceit. III. THE REPORT TO GOD. "And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord" (cf. ver. 9). Such report was necessary to secure the favour of God and the faith of the people. It tended to — 1. Exoneration of conscience. 2. Relief of the heart. 3. Invigoration of hope. 4. Accrediting of character. 5. Success of ministry, Nothing works more to give a man power with men than the belief that he has power with God. (William Forsyth.) Parallel Verses KJV: And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him. |
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