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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comThrough the Bible Day by Day - Exodus 20:18 - 20:18
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
the People Fear; Idols and Altars
Exo 20:18-26
When our Lord was on earth He was so attractive and winsome that the publicans and sinners drew near to hear Him, penitents wept at His feet, children nestled to His heart. But even then there were some who desired Him to depart out of their coasts. So here, while Moses drew near, the people stood afar off. Let us not be among those who avoid the near presence of God, but of those who are made nigh by the blood of Christ. Let us exercise our right to draw near to the throne of grace, and stand in the very presence of our Father-God, because we have a great High Priest, who is passed through the heavens.
At Exo 20:22, we begin the Book of the Covenant, which extends to Exo 23:33, containing a series of wholesome laws, and the first enactment deals with the worship of the Most High. Note that in all places He will record His Name. Everywhere we may worship Him. The altar had to be of earth, teaching us the lessons of humility, simplicity and self-abasement. See Heb 13:10. But always the adjustment with God precedes rightness toward man.