Understanding Exodus 20:21

Exodus 20:21 states: "And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was." This verse occurs in the context of God's delivery of the Ten Commandments and illustrates the reverent fear and profound respect the Israelites had for the presence of God. Below is a summarized interpretation of this verse, drawn from various public domain commentaries.

Contextual Summary

This verse follows the giving of the Ten Commandments and reflects the people's reaction to God's revelation. The Israelites stood at a distance, acknowledging both the power and holiness of God, while Moses, as their mediator, went into the thick darkness where God was present. This moment underscores the seriousness of God’s holiness and establishes the significance of the role of Moses among the people.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the dread that God’s presence inspired in the Israelites, which led them to stay at a distance. He notes that Moses’ approach into the darkness symbolizes the mediator's role between God and humanity, highlighting the importance of reverence in approaching the divine.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes suggests that the 'thick darkness' may represent the mystery of God's presence. He points out that the darkness does not imply evil but rather signifies God's otherness and the separation between the holy and the sinful. Moses, therefore, illustrates the pathway for those seeking communion with God.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke remarks on the fear that held the people back, illustrating how the holiness of God elicited a proper response of awe from the Israelites. He also expounds on Moses' unique relationship with God, which allowed him access to the divine presence that others could not approach at that time.

Theological Significance

Exodus 20:21 illustrates several theological points:

• The distinction between the holiness of God and the sinfulness of humanity.
• The role of intermediaries in spiritual matters, providing a link between God and God's people.
• The importance of reverence and fear in understanding one’s relationship with the divine.

Cross-References

This verse can be cross-referenced with several other scripture passages that highlight similar themes of God's holiness and the importance of a mediator:

• Hebrews 12:18-24: Discusses the contrast between the fearful scene at Sinai and the joyful assembly in the heavenly Jerusalem.
• Deuteronomy 5:5: Illustrates Moses as a mediator who stands between God and the people.
• Isaiah 6:5: Reflects the recognition of one's own sinfulness in the presence of a holy God.
• 1 Timothy 2:5: Establishes that Christ is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.
• Job 9:2: Job recognizes that he cannot contend with God, affirming the need for a mediator.
• Exodus 19:16-19: Describes the dramatic encounter at Sinai, reinforcing the seriousness of God's presence.
• Psalms 99:1-3: Celebrates God's reign amidst reverence and awe from His people.

Connections Between Bible Verses

By examining Exodus 20:21 alongside its cross-references, we gain a deeper understanding of the underlying themes in scripture:

• Fear of the Lord: Similar to the fright exhibited by the Israelites, verses such as Proverbs 1:7 emphasize that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
• Mediatorship: The concept of a mediator is a continuous theme within the Bible, explored through figures like Moses, the high priests, and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
• Divine Mystery: The ‘thick darkness’ experienced by Moses echoes various instances throughout scripture where the presence of God is shrouded in a form of mystery, as seen in Matthew 27:51.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This examination encourages readers to explore thematic connections in scripture. The themes of God's holiness, the need for mediation, and the reverence due to God are echoed throughout the Bible, enriching one's understanding of the text.

Conclusion

Exodus 20:21 serves as a crucial reminder of the nature of God and the human relationship with Him. It encapsulates the essence of reverence, fear, and the need for a mediator, themes that resonate throughout the entirety of scripture. Exploring cross-references provides a deeper and richer understanding of these biblical truths, enhancing one’s ability to engage in Bible verse cross-referencing and comparative Bible verse analysis.