Day 37 – Exodus 22-24

Talking Points

• God continues to give and explain His law. The great detail found in the commands is amazing. God is very specific as He outlines how to live in moral fairness in many matters.
• God commands the observance of three feasts.
• Again, God’s commands are for the best interest of His people. He gives the best way to live!
• The people heartily agree, confessing their intent to keep God’s commands. As they respond, the glory of God is on display again. There is no mistake — this is the one true God.

Thoughts

Our God blows my mind! Repeatedly, He reveals Himself as exactly opposite of what one might expect. The giving of the law is one such occasion. Think about this — He has given His commands very clearly, very specifically. He has made the punishment for disobeying severe: Break these commands and be written off as My people. Disobey and leave My care and My blessing. Wow. Surely this is a call for strict legalism and a strong system of works! Surely we have our marching orders and better get to work!

Actually — not at all!

The truth is all works-based approaches to God result in disaster. Instead of bringing peace, they incite anxiety. Instead of instilling joy, they foster despair. Instead of rest and security, they result in a never-ending struggle — literally never-ending. Where works-based religions say, “Here is your rule book. Keep it and live,” God actually does something amazingly opposite. He gives the law, makes clear His commands, makes certain the punishments, and then turns the whole thing on its head! God gives the law, not that we will find life in it, but He gives the law so that we will see the hopelessness of it.

Do not miss how amazing that is! In the process of showcasing salvation by grace through faith in Jesus, He makes certain we are desperately sure we need a Savior. Before delivering His Son, God kindly shows us the emptiness of works. Wow! What a plan! Tired from the race? There is rest in Jesus.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 1:8-9