The glory of God descends on Mount Sinai and the people see the mountain devoured by consuming fire. Moses ascends the mount, summoned by the divine presence to receive the Ten Commandments and laws, the Debarim and the Mishpatim. These laws and directives will form the foundation of a nation governed by the very will of God.

Moses leaves Aaron, Hur, and the elders in charge of the people while he ascends alone. Moses remains on the mountain for forty days and nights, receiving detailed instructions for Israel's worship, including the design for the tabernacle and the priesthood. The Israelites are left anxious and uncertain about Moses's return. Frances Hogan explains that this period was a test of the Israelites' faithfulness to God.

After finishing with chapter 24, Hogan jumps to chapter 32. Upon returning from the mountain, Moses finds the Israelites in severe apostasy during his absence. The people’s fall into idolatry demonstrates the pressing need for a spiritual maturity that can withstand the trials of faith, even in the absence of their leader. Hogan explains in detail that Moses' journey up the mountain and the subsequent crisis at its base reflect the challenges of maintaining faith and holiness in a seemingly godless world.

Bible References:

• Ex.24:17-18 – From a distance, God's presence appeared as a devouring fire, but for Moses, who entered the cloud, it was simply the mystery of God's presence; perception of God depends on one's closeness to Him
• Sir.45:1-6 – Moses' relationship with God far exceeded that of Abraham, despite Abraham being celebrated as the father of all believers
• Heb.4:10 – Moses enters God's presence, and while receiving a profound revelation, he also finds rest, as union with God brings rest to the soul
• Lev.19:2 – Israel encountered God as the untouchable, holy, and pure one, and He desires a holy people like Himself
• Dt.32:15-17 – Israel’s apostasy

We delve into the captivating history of how God liberated the children of Israel from slavery, forging them into a nation of His own. Frances Hogan, the renowned Irish scripture scholar, guides us through the pages of Exodus, unlocking the timeless wisdom and insights that will enrich your understanding of scripture.

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Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/

Ever wonder how God's chosen people gained access to Him? This episode dives into Chapter 24 of the Book of Exodus, exploring the covenant ratification with scripture scholar Hogan. Moses, Aaron, his sons, and the elders are called into God's presence, witnessing His glory and majesty like no other nation has.

Hogan explains the intricate process of establishing a priestly nation through worship, the construction of a symbolic altar with twelve pillars representing the tribes of Israel, and the profound meaning behind sacrificial blood. Through public affirmations of commitment and offerings for sin and communion, the Israelites gain unprecedented access to God, becoming His special people.

But how could the blood of a sacrificial animal make such a difference in the relationship with God? Discover how this covenant granted them remarkable closeness to the throne of God, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Join Frances Hogan as she unpacks these deep spiritual concepts and the true meaning of access to God.

Bible References:

• 1Pet.3:18 – Our true access to God
• Ex.24:7-8 – Moses binds the people to God's will
• 1Cor.12 – As the body of Christ, with Him as the head and us as the body, we are the altar. The twelve standing stones symbolized the people of God offering themselves to Him forever
• Ex 19:8 & 24:3,7 – The three times when the Israelites give their yes to God

We delve into the captivating history of how God liberated the children of Israel from slavery, forging them into a nation of His own. Frances Hogan, the renowned Irish scripture scholar, guides us through the pages of Exodus, unlocking the timeless wisdom and insights that will enrich your understanding of scripture.

Shalom World Podcasts: https://www.shalomworld.org/podcasts

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087483505045

Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/

In this episode, Frances Hogan builds on the ninth and tenth commandments as mentioned in Chapter 20. She then discusses the moral, civil, and sacrificial dimensions of the laws found in Chapters 21 to 23. These laws aim to foster a community characterized by justice, kindness, and reverence for God's holiness

The ninth commandment admonishes against bearing false witness, stressing the importance of truthfulness and integrity in all relationships. Meanwhile, the tenth commandment warns against coveting, highlighting the peril of nurturing selfish desires.

Central to the Ten Commandments is the principle of love. The Israelites' initial response to God's presence at Mount Sinai was marked by fear. In the Old Testament context, Hogan explains how fear served as a deterrent against disobedience and highlighted their awareness of their own shortcomings in the face of God's holiness. This emphasis on fear contrasts with the New Testament's focus on love as the driving force behind obedience and righteousness.

Bible References:

• Ex.20:18-21 – They are confronted with the presence of an all-holy God, and it overwhelms them. The primary motivation God provides for them to serve Him properly is fear
• Phil.2:1-11 – Jesus, the perfect servant
• Lk.2:49 & Jn.6:38 – Jesus came down from heaven not to do His own will, but to do the will of His Father
• Eph.1:3 – Christ has prepared all the spiritual blessings that are possible, but how many of us actually possessed them?
• Ex.23:20-23 – This isn't just any angel; no other angel in the Bible is described in this manner or holds such authority over God's people. They demand obedience and act as judges. So, who could this be?
• Ex.23:30 – God knows how to deal with us, and our greatest enemies are not external but internal

We delve into the captivating history of how God liberated the children of Israel from slavery, forging them into a nation of His own. Frances Hogan, the renowned Irish scripture scholar, guides us through the pages of Exodus, unlocking the timeless wisdom and insights that will enrich your understanding of scripture.

Shalom World Podcasts: https://www.shalomworld.org/podcasts

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087483505045

Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/