Exodus 32:26-29
- Daniel Casseus
- Mar 29
- 6 min read
Exodus 32:26-29
26. then Moses stood in the gate of the camp and said, "Who is on the Lord 's side? Come to me." And all the sons of Levi gathered around him. 27. And he said to them, "Thus says the Lord God of Israel, 'Put your sword on your side each of you, and go to and fro from gate to gate throughout the camp, and each of you kill his brother and his companion and his neighbor.'" 28. And the sons of Levi did according to the word of Moses. And that day about three thousand men of the people fell. 29. And Moses said, "Today you have been ordained for the service of the Lord, each one at the cost of his son and of his brother, so that he might bestow a blessing upon you this day."
It's quite amusing how circumstances have unfolded. My brother in faith is embarking on a study of Exodus, and I recently crafted a comprehensive devotional reading plan that includes this significant text. As I delved into Exodus, I stumbled upon some fascinating insights—one in particular caught my attention and left me pondering its deep meaning. I'm eager to share this intriguing nugget with others.
Many people say that the old does not represent the new books and will beg to differ on these claims, for they are completely senseless and can easily be refused. Now, my brother is doing a true study by providing historical facts of the accounts in this treasured story God left us so we can know him completely. This cannot be done without a complete understanding of the old books first.
However, those who follow me know I make basic applications of scripture by utilizing actual context within scripture so we can see how these truths apply to our everyday lives today in real-time.
I want to begin by sharing that I have dedicated over 20 years to studying God's word. Throughout this extensive journey, I have explored a variety of interpretations, commentaries, and teachings, both in written form and through numerous YouTube lectures. However, despite this thorough investigation, I have yet to encounter a particular connection that seems to be overlooked in mainstream discussions. It's important to clarify that my lack of exposure to such a study does not imply that it hasn’t been conducted; rather, it simply means I have not personally encountered such insights. This realization prompts me to wonder about alternative interpretations and unexplored themes that may exist within the vast landscape of biblical scholarship.
When I read this encounter, it instantaneously reminded me of a narrative from the New Testament, specifically the teachings of Jesus. This connection was the very first thought that crossed my mind. I interpreted it as a manifestation of God’s word being actively applied in our lives today. The essence of Jesus' teachings—what He referred to as the new law—takes on new significance in this context. It illustrates how we are called to live by a higher standard because of the profound sacrifices made for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. The application of such a scene is markedly different from what might have been understood before; we now navigate our moral and ethical decisions with the understanding that we are empowered by grace and guided by a deeper spiritual truth.
In the Old Testament, the divine guidance we received was distinctly different from what we experience today. During those times, God communicated His will through a select group of individuals, chosen for their unique purpose and character to carry out His divine orders. Prominent among them was Moses, a figure of immense significance, but he was far from the only one. Throughout the ages, many others were appointed by God to serve as His representatives, leading His people and conveying His messages right up until the arrival of Jesus. Each of these chosen individuals served as a vital link between the divine and humanity, embodying the will of God in a time when His presence was manifest in powerful and tangible ways.
To avoid extending this blog unnecessarily, I will share the verses that I believe many of you are already familiar with. However, it’s important to explore how their application has evolved over time, particularly in contrast to the context in which they were originally delivered during the days of Moses. Let's delve into this meaningful transition and examine the relevance of these teachings in today's world.
Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”
For the son treats the father with contempt, the daughter rises up against her mother, the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; a man's enemies are the men of his own house.
Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death,
For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person's enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
While numerous applications are available, the ones mentioned here are among the most popular and widely used. With that in mind, I'll explore the one application in greater detail, especially if you haven't had the chance to discover it as of yet.
In Moses' time, God commanded them to kill those who opposed Him, including friends, enemies, and family; there were no exceptions. God conveyed the same message then as He does in the New Testament. As Jesus stated, if you are not with me, you are against me.
Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
God has made it unmistakably clear that a separation will take place; however, it is not us who will be the ones to drift away. Instead, it will be our family, friends, and loved ones who will begin to step back from our lives. This poignant shift signals a profound change in our relationships, as those we hold dear may find themselves distancing themselves, leaving us to navigate this unexpected journey alone.
The distinction between the two lies in the nature of their connections. One represents a tangible, physical bond, while ours transcends the material realm, reaching into the depths of the spiritual dimension. In Christ Jesus, we are called to uphold a higher standard, which elevates the importance of our relationship and the consequences that come with it. As such, the stakes are significantly greater, inviting us to seek a more profound understanding and commitment to one another. Amen to that.
In conclusion, it is essential to recognize that God calls us to a higher standard in our contemporary lives, different from the expectations set in the past. When Jesus came to Earth and sacrificially died for our sins, He promised to send us a helper. This promise was fulfilled in the form of the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit, we are gifted with the fullness of God's laws inscribed within us. Jesus assured us that this divine presence would guide us, helping us to remember and understand the teachings we have received through His words.
When we examine ancient texts that resonate with the messages found in the gospels, it becomes evident that the truth of our Creator has been consistently woven throughout scripture. This continuity reveals that He remains unchanged—yesterday, today, and forever more. It reassures us that His word endures the test of time, standing firm against the challenges and uncertainties of the ages.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
“For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
So, I hope that this little truth serves as a blessing and provides good teaching to all who pass through my blog.
As always, may this be a blessing to all, and may it draw you closer to my Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.
God Bless
Peace & Shalom.
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