Summary of Exodus 22:18

This verse is part of the Mosaic Law, specifically addressing the community's stance on sorcery and witchcraft.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry elaborates that this command is a reflection of God's holiness and a safeguard against practices that would lead His people away from true worship. He emphasizes the severe danger that witchcraft posed to the moral fabric of society.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes highlights the historical context in which this law was given, noting that it was part of God's instructions to Israel to keep them pure and separate from the surrounding pagan nations. He also underscores the seriousness with which God viewed the infiltration of occult practices.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke interprets this verse in light of the theocratic nature of Israel's society, suggesting that civil and religious law were intertwined. He also notes that at this time, acts of sorcery were seen as a direct affront to God's authority and order.

Bible Cross-References

Exodus 22:18 is linked to several other Bible verses that discuss the themes of witchcraft and sorcery:

• Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Speaks against various forms of divination and sorcery.
• Leviticus 20:27 - Describes the punishment for a person who is a medium or spiritist.
• 1 Samuel 28:7-10 - Describes Saul consulting the witch of Endor.
• Galatians 5:19-21 - Lists sorcery among the works of the flesh.
• Revelation 21:8 - Mentions sorcerers as part of those who will face the second death.
• Isaiah 47:12-14 - Bemoans the futility of sorcery and its practitioners.
• Micah 5:12 - Prophecy against witchcraft practices.

Connections Between Bible Verses

Exodus 22:18 facilitates an understanding of how the Old Testament addresses the issue of magic and occult practices, which is also reflected in the New Testament:

In the New Testament, witchcraft is condemned alongside other sinful behaviors, demonstrating a continuous divine disapproval of such practices.

Thematic Analysis

The themes arising from Exodus 22:18 include:

• The Nature of Sin: Understanding witchcraft as delusion and an affront to God's order.
• Consequences of Disobedience: Indicates the severe consequences of leading others away from the worship of God.
• God's Holiness: Demonstrates the seriousness with which God addresses moral decay within His people.

Practical Application

Believers today can reflect on Exodus 22:18 as a call to uphold purity in worship and avoid practices that are not in alignment with God's Word. It serves as a reminder to be discerning of teachings and practices that undermine faithfulness to God.

Resources for Bible Cross-Referencing

For further study, consider using:

• Bible Concordance: To find related verses and themes.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: To assist in in-depth study and analysis.
• Bible Cross-Reference System: For structured exploration of biblical themes.

Conclusion

Exodus 22:18 serves as an important part of the broader narrative of Scripture, revealing God's stance against sorcery and witchcraft while maintaining the call for His people to worship Him in truth. The connections made through cross-referencing help in understanding the continuity of God's message throughout the Bible.