“And he said, Behold, I make a covenant: before all thy people I will do marvels, such as have not been done in all the earth, nor in any nation: and all the people among which thou art shall see the work of the LORD: for it is a terrible thing that I will do with thee.”
Context:In Exodus 34, Moses had just received the second set of stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments from God. This chapter is significant because it follows the incident of the golden calf, where the Israelites had broken their covenant with God and engaged in idolatry. Moses interceded on their behalf, and God, in His mercy, granted them another chance and renewed the covenant with them.
Key Points:
- A Covenant of Marvels: God tells Moses that He is making a new covenant with the people of Israel. A covenant is a solemn agreement or contract between two parties, in this case, between God and His chosen people. Unlike the previous covenant, this renewed covenant comes with a promise of marvelous deeds or wonders that God will perform on behalf of His people. It demonstrates God’s faithfulness and grace even in the face of human failure.
- Unprecedented Miracles: God declares that the wonders He will do for Israel will be unparalleled. The use of the word “marvels” indicates extraordinary and awe-inspiring acts that surpass any other performed on Earth or among any other nation. This emphasises the unique relationship God has with the nation of Israel and His desire to show Himself mighty on their behalf.
- Visible Manifestation of God’s Work: God assures Moses that all the people will have the opportunity to witness these marvellous works. It is not something hidden or reserved for a select few, but a public display of God’s power and glory. This serves as a testimony to the people of Israel and a witness to surrounding nations of God’s supremacy and sovereignty.
- A Terrible Thing: The word “terrible” in this context does not mean something negative or fearful but rather awe-inspiring and awe-filled. It refers to the profound and majestic nature of God’s works. God’s acts are so great that they evoke a sense of reverence and wonder, causing people to recognise His magnificence and might.
Spiritual Lessons:
- God’s Covenant Faithfulness: Despite the Israelites’ unfaithfulness and disobedience, God remained faithful to His covenant promises. This displays His loving-kindness and long-suffering nature. It reminds us that God’s love and commitment to His people are not based on their merit but on His character.
- God’s Sovereign Power: The marvellous acts that God promised reveal His unmatched power and authority over all creation. As believers, we can trust in His ability to accomplish the impossible and to intervene on our behalf.
- Visible Testimony: The visible manifestations of God’s works among His people served as a testimony to the reality of His presence and His involvement in their lives. Likewise, our transformed lives and the work of the Holy Spirit in and through us can serve as a testimony to the world of God’s saving grace.
- Reverential Awe: Recognising the “terrible” (awe-inspiring) nature of God’s works can lead us to approach Him with reverence and humility. Understanding His greatness should evoke worship and deep respect in our hearts.
