“And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.”
Historical Context:Exodus 19 is a pivotal chapter in the biblical narrative as it marks the Israelites’ arrival at Mount Sinai after their escape from Egypt. It is at this mountain that God establishes a covenant with His chosen people and gives them the Ten Commandments.
God’s Intention for the Israelites:In Exodus 19:6, God expresses His intention for the children of Israel. He declares that if they obey His voice and keep His covenant, they will be a special people to Him-a “kingdom of priests” and a “holy nation.”
A Kingdom of Priests:The phrase “kingdom of priests” is significant because it reveals God’s desire for all the Israelites to have a close relationship with Him, much like the role of priests who had a special connection with God in the Old Testament. It suggests that every Israelite had the potential to serve as a mediator between God and the nations, representing God’s character and His will to others.
A Holy Nation:The term “holy nation” signifies the call for the Israelites to be a set-apart people, distinct from the other nations. They were to embody God’s holiness, living according to His commandments and reflecting His character to the world around them.
Application for Christians:Although Exodus 19:6 specifically addresses the Israelites, its principles can have relevance for Christians today. In the New Testament, believers are described as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9) and a “holy nation.” (1 Peter 2:9). This implies that Christians, through their faith in Jesus Christ, are called to be God’s representatives on earth, demonstrating His love, grace, and righteousness to the world.
The Covenant Relationship:It is important to note that the promises in Exodus 19:6 were contingent upon the Israelites’ obedience to God’s voice and their commitment to keeping His covenant. Similarly, as Christians, our relationship with God is founded on the covenant of grace through Jesus Christ. We are called to live in obedience to God’s Word, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and to fulfill our purpose as ambassadors of Christ.
In summary, Exodus 19:6 reveals God’s intention for the children of Israel to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. This passage teaches us about God’s desire for a special relationship with His people, the importance of living a life of holiness, and our responsibility as Christians to represent God’s character to the world.
