Exodus 34
Difficult Questions and Answers
(Exodus 34:1) Why does this second set of commandments differ from those in Exodus 20, and which version should be considered authoritative?

(Exodus 34:10) Is there any historical or archeological evidence that God performed the marvels described here in front of the Israelites?

(Exodus 34:14) How do we reconcile the commandment against worshiping other gods with archaeological finds suggesting Israel’s early polytheistic practices?

(Exodus 34:29–35) How can Moses’s radiant face be explained scientifically, and why are there no other similar reports in the Torah?

(Exodus 34:26) Does the prohibition of boiling a young goat in its mother’s milk align with known ancient dietary customs, or might it be anachronistic?

Bible Study Questions

1. Reflect on God's description of Himself in verse 5. How does this portrayal influence your understanding of God's nature?

2. Moses is seen interceding for the Israelites in verse 8-9. How does this model of leadership inform our roles in our communities today?

3. Why do you think God chose to renew His covenant with the Israelites despite their disobedience?

4. Explore the commandments given in verses 18-27. How can these ancient rules guide our lives today?

5. What does the radiance of Moses' face symbolize in this passage? How can we achieve such transformation in our own lives?

6. In what ways do the laws presented mirror or differ from societal norms today?

7. How can the events on Mount Sinai teach us about the seriousness of God's covenants?

8. How does this passage challenge our understanding of God's justice?

9. What does God's instruction to Moses about the creation of the second tablets tell us about second chances?

10. How can the Israelites' reaction to Moses' radiant face guide our responses to extraordinary spiritual experiences?

11. Consider God's response to Moses' plea for favor and forgiveness. What does this tell us about God's attitude towards repentance?

12. Moses was asked to present himself alone on the mountaintop. What does this say about our personal relationship with God?

13. Moses followed God's command without question. How can we develop such absolute faith and obedience in our lives?

14. How does God's mercy and grace manifest in this chapter, and how does that impact our understanding of His character?

15. How does the notion of God as a "jealous God" align with the loving and compassionate nature presented in the same passage?

16. What are the consequences of making a treaty with the inhabitants of the land as described in this passage? How can we apply this to our modern context?

17. How does this passage instruct us on worship, and how might we apply these principles today?

18. In what ways can we identify with the Israelites' fear of Moses' radiant face? How should we react when faced with God's glory?

19. What can we learn from Moses' 40-day encounter with God, especially in the context of our spiritual disciplines?

20. Considering Moses' use of a veil, how should we manage the spiritual revelations we receive in our interactions with others?



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Exodus 33
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