“And the Lord said unto Moses, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first: and I will write upon these tables the words that were in the first tables, which thou brakest.”
Context:To understand the significance of this verse, we need to consider the context. In Exodus 32, Moses had received the Ten Commandments from God on two stone tablets while he was on Mount Sinai. However, while Moses was away, the people of Israel turned to idolatry and worshipped a golden calf. When Moses returned and saw the sinfulness of the people, he was filled with righteous anger and smashed the stone tablets, symbolising the breaking of the covenant between God and Israel. After this, Moses interceded on behalf of the people, and in Exodus 33, he entered the tabernacle to speak with God. The Lord assured Moses of His presence, but the people were still under the consequences of their disobedience.
Explanation:In Exodus 34:1, God instructs Moses to prepare two new stone tablets. These new tablets were to replace the ones Moses had broken. Notice that God specifies that the new tablets should be “like unto the first.” This indicates that the content and significance of the commandments written on them remained the same. God further assures Moses that He will write on these new tablets the same words that were on the original tablets. This reaffirms God’s commitment to His covenant with Israel and His willingness to give them a second chance despite their past failures.
Key Lessons:God’s Faithfulness: Despite the Israelites’ disobedience, God remains faithful to His promises. He could have abandoned them or chosen another people, but He still desires to have a covenant relationship with Israel.
- Divine Forgiveness: God’s willingness to give Israel a second chance reflects His forgiving nature. Even when we mess up or break our relationship with Him, God is always ready to forgive us if we genuinely repent and turn back to Him.
- Importance of God’s Word: The fact that God writes the Ten Commandments on the stone tablets emphasizes the significance of His Word. God’s commandments provide a moral and ethical framework for His people, guiding them in righteous living.
- Restoration and Renewal: The replacement of the tablets symbolises restoration and renewal of the covenant. It shows that God is interested not only in judging but also in restoring His relationship with His people.
Application:As we reflect on Exodus 34:1, there are some practical applications we can draw from this passage:
- Repentance and Restoration: Just as God restored the covenant with Israel, we should seek repentance and reconciliation with God when we stray from His ways. God’s forgiveness and restoration are available to all who genuinely seek Him.
- Faithfulness in God’s Word: The importance of God’s Word cannot be overstated. We should diligently study and obey His commandments, knowing that they provide the foundation for a fruitful and godly life.
- Gratitude for God’s Mercy: Understanding God’s willingness to forgive and grant second chances should evoke gratitude and motivate us to live in a manner that pleases Him.
- Leadership Responsibility: As Moses was entrusted with the task of preparing the tablets, leaders have a responsibility to lead by example and encourage others to follow God’s ways faithfully.
Remember that the story of the Bible is not just about historical events but also about the timeless principles and truths that apply to our lives today. May we draw inspiration from the story of God’s interaction with His people and strive to live in accordance with His Word.
