“And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel.”
Historical Context:Exodus is the second book of the Old Testament and primarily focuses on the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. At this point in the narrative, the Israelites have already been delivered from Egypt through miraculous signs and wonders, including the parting of the Red Sea.
Moses’ Encounter with God: In Exodus 19, Moses ascends Mount Sinai to meet with God. This encounter marks a significant moment in the relationship between God and the people of Israel. Moses represents the mediator between God and the Israelites, as he is chosen by God to deliver His messages and lead the people.
God’s Call and Message: While Moses is on the mountain, God calls out to him. This communication is divine in nature, signifying a direct conversation between God and His chosen servant. God instructs Moses to relay a message to the house of Jacob, which refers to the entire nation of Israel, and specifically, the children of Israel. Moses is tasked with delivering God’s words to the Israelites, which will be shared in the subsequent verses.
Importance of the Message: The message that God imparts to Moses on the mountain is crucial because it establishes the foundation for the covenant that will be made between God and the Israelites. In the following verses, God reveals His plan to make Israel a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:6). This demonstrates God’s desire for the Israelites to be set apart and dedicated to Him, serving as representatives of His holiness to the world.
Application and Lessons:
- Mediatorship: Moses’ role as an intermediary between God and the people highlights the importance of having a representative who can bring God’s messages and guidance to His people. In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills this role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).
- God’s Purpose for His People: The call for Israel to be a holy nation reminds us that God has a purpose for each of His followers. We are called to live in a way that reflects God’s character, serving as a testimony to His love, grace, and righteousness (1 Peter 2:9).
- Divine Communication: The encounter between God and Moses emphasizes the significance of communication with God. As believers, we should seek God’s guidance through prayer, reading His Word, and cultivating a personal relationship with Him.
In conclusion, Exodus 19:3 marks the beginning of Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai, where God calls him and instructs him to deliver a message to the Israelites. This interaction sets the stage for the establishment of the covenant and emphasizes the importance of having a mediator between God and His people. It also highlights God’s desire for His people to be set apart and dedicated to Him. This passage reminds us of the significance of communication with God and the call to live according to His purpose.
