“And the tables were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, graven upon the tables.”
Context:Exodus 32 is a pivotal chapter in the book of Exodus, where the Israelites, who had been led out of Egypt by Moses, commit a grave sin by creating a golden calf and worshiping it as a false god. This incident occurs while Moses is on Mount Sinai, receiving the Ten Commandments and other laws from God.
The Tables of the Law:In this verse, “the tables” refer to the stone tablets upon which the Ten Commandments were inscribed. These tablets were unique because they were not made by human hands; they were the direct work of God. It emphasises the sacredness and significance of the Ten Commandments as a divine revelation to guide the Israelites in their covenantal relationship with God.
The Writing of God:The phrase “the writing was the writing of God” indicates that the Ten Commandments were not merely authored by Moses or any human being; they were directly written by God Himself. The divine origin of these commandments underscores their authority and eternal importance for God’s people.
Graven Upon the Tables:The phrase “graven upon the tables” suggests that the writing was deeply engraved or carved into the stone, ensuring its permanence and durability. Unlike ink on parchment or paper, this form of inscription ensured that the Ten Commandments would endure for generations and serve as a lasting testimony to God’s moral laws.
Spiritual Lessons:
- The Significance of God’s Law:Exodus 32:16 reminds us of the importance of God’s law in our lives. The Ten Commandments, as well as other instructions found in the Bible, are not arbitrary rules but guidelines given by a loving God to help us live in harmony with Him and one another. God’s law provides a framework for righteous living and reveals His character and standards to us.
- The Nature of God’s Revelation:The fact that God Himself wrote the Ten Commandments demonstrates the divine origin of Scripture. It affirms the inspiration and authority of God’s Word, ensuring that what was written is accurate and trustworthy. The Bible is not merely a human book but a divinely inspired revelation that points us to God and His purposes.
- Our Response to God’s Word:Just as the Ten Commandments were etched into stone, God’s Word should be engraved upon our hearts. We should take God’s commands seriously and seek to obey them out of love and reverence for Him. As Christians, we are called to meditate on God’s Word, internalise it, and allow it to transform our lives and shape our decisions.
Conclusion:Exodus 32:16 highlights the divine origin and significance of the Ten Commandments as God’s direct communication with His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of God’s law in guiding our lives and the authority of Scripture in shaping our faith. As we study and apply God’s Word, may it be deeply ingrained in our hearts, leading us to a deeper relationship with Him and a life that honours His commandments.
