Exodus 20:20 - Verse Meaning Summary

Exodus 20:20 states: "And Moses said to the people, 'Do not be afraid; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, so that you may not sin.' This verse occurs in the context of the giving of the Ten Commandments where God manifests His presence on Mount Sinai. The essence of this verse is to illustrate the dual relationship between divine fear and obedience; the fear of God is intended not to instill terror, but to inspire reverence and prevent sin.

Insights from Commentators

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that fear of God serves a beneficial purpose. It is meant to keep believers aware of their actions, steering them away from sin. Moses reassures the people that this fear is not destructive but rather a guide towards righteousness, highlighting the importance of a clear conscience.
• Albert Barnes: He notes that the fear of God is not intended to dismay the faithful, but to protect them from the dangers of sin. God's testing is necessary for spiritual growth; true fear leads to adherence to His laws. Barnes stresses that the fear of God is essential in sustaining a relationship with the divine.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke discusses the distinction between being afraid and showing reverence. He suggests that God's intention in revealing His power is to piqué the people's senses to the seriousness of His commands. The right kind of fear provokes awe and fosters obedience rather than dread.

Key Themes Explored

• The Fear of God: This verse teaches about divine wisdom and how the fear of God should lead followers away from sin.
• Testing and Growth: God's tests are designed to develop the hearts and minds of believers, helping them understand their relationship with Him more deeply.
• Prevention of Sin: The intention behind instilling fear is to promote righteous living and adherence to God's commands as a safeguard against wrongdoing.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 5:29 - "Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments." This cross-reference connects the fear of God to consistent obedience.
• Proverbs 1:7 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." This highlights the foundational role of fearing God in acquiring wisdom.
• Psalm 111:10 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments." Again, reaffirming the link between fear and wisdom.
• Hebrews 12:28-29 - "Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." This suggests how fear operates in the life of a believer under the New Covenant.
• Romans 3:18 - "There is no fear of God before their eyes." This verse contrasts the righteous fear discussed in Exodus with the condition of those who live in disregard for God.
• 1 Peter 1:17 - "And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear." Underlines the importance of fear in our conduct as believers.
• Psalm 147:11 - "The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy." This connects God’s delight with the attitude of fear toward Him.

Conclusion

In summary, Exodus 20:20 serves as a pivotal scripture that encapsulates the concept of godly fear, its necessity in preventing sin, and the essential role it plays in the spiritual lives of believers. Commentary insights from respected theologians like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enrich our understanding, presenting a holistic view that emphasizes both reverence and obedience towards God.