Daily Devotions
Exodus
"Their sorrow shall be multiplied who hasten after another god..." Psalm 16:4a
Text: Exodus 32
WHO WERE “THE PEOPLE” WHO ASKED FOR GODS TO BE MADE?
The gravity of the request to make “gods”, that is, “idols” is so great that we need to look most carefully at the people who made it.
1. Complainers
Were these some of “the people” who kept complaining all this while?
a) They complained when they came to the Red Sea crossing (Cf. Exodus 14:11-12).
b) They complained about the bitter waters at Marah (Cf. Exodus 15:24).
c) They complained when they were hungry (Cf. Exodus 16:2-3).
2. Contenders
Were these some of “the people” who aggressively contended with Moses at Massah and Meribah (Cf. Exodus 17:2), when the issue of water supply came up again?
A NOTABLE COMMENTARY
The Book of Hebrews offers a notably scathing commentary on “the people” in Moses’ day. For easier reference, the following comments are tabulated.
1. Hardening of the heart
Not only was Pharaoh guilty of hardening his heart, the children of Israel were also charged with the same sin (Cf. Hebrews 3:8)
2. Rebellion
It is interesting to note that the writer of the Hebrews wrote that his insight was revealed by none other than the Holy Spirit. The children of Israel kept rebelling against the Lord (Cf. Hebrews 3:8)
3. Going Astray
The children of Israel had experienced wondrous blessings from the Lord, and yet before too long, they would “go astray in their heart” (Cf. Hebrews 3:10)
4. Ignorant of God’s way
Despite the fact that Moses had taught the people so much, they had not learned well. They were charged with these words, “They have not known My ways” (Cf. Hebrews 3:10).
5. An evil heart of unbelief
Yet another terrifying statement was leveled against the children of Israel! They developed a heart of unbelief instead of a heart of faith!