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In what respects did the rock at Horeb represent Christ?

I. IT FOUND THE PEOPLE PERISHING WITH THIRST. This is just our condition by nature. We are destitute of all that can refresh or satisfy the soul.

II. IT WAS A MOST IMPROBABLE MEANS OF RELIEF. In countries like our own the springs of water generally take their course along a rocky bed below the surface. But in those sandy deserts the case is far otherwise. Horeb, a vast mass of stone, only increased the desolation of the prospect. And such were the gloomy anticipations of many to whom Jesus offered Himself as their Redeemer. Scribes and Pharisees were offended at His personal meanness — the son of a carpenter! no worldly show! His own disciples were continually stumbled, and "all forsook Him and fled." Learned Gentiles heard with scorn that one executed as a malefactor was to be received as king of the world, Nay, even to this day men will hope nothing, and therefore seek nothing from Christ till they are compelled.

III. IT REQUIRED TO BE SMITTEN ERE IT GAVE A SUPPLY. And how exactly did this action typify the suffering Redeemer! It was not by His miracles nor by His instructions that Jesus provided salvation for us, but by His death, Read Isaiah 53 and Zechariah 13:7. Not only Christ was smitten; but He was to be smitten. "Ought not Christ to have suffered these things?" etc. Here then let us fix our attention. "Behold the wounded Lamb of God," etc., and say, " God forbid that I should glory," etc.

IV. IT YIELDED AN ABUNDANT SUPPLY. For such a host no ordinary stream of water would suffice; but here was enough and to spare. And such is the supply of spiritual blessings which is treasured up in Christ Jesus (Colossians 1:19).

V. IT SAVED THE LIVES OF REBELS IF THEY WOULD BUT DRINK.

(J. Jowett, M.A.)

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KJV: Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

WEB: Now I would not have you ignorant, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;