Where Are We? — Exodus 33–35 (Daily Reading)

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Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC
  • Location: Mount Sinai and the camp, Wilderness of Sinai
  • Setting: Covenant rupture addressed; intercession, restoration, and preparation for construction

Where Are We in the Text?

  • After the golden calf, God addresses covenant breach; Moses intercedes and seeks God’s presence (Exod 33).
  • The covenant is renewed; God proclaims His name and restates covenant terms (Exod 34).
  • Moses communicates the LORD’s words; Sabbath command is reiterated; tabernacle contributions and work begin (Exod 35).

Where Are We in Time?

  • These chapters occur immediately after the golden calf apostasy and judgment (Exod 32–33).
  • The renewal of covenant fellowship precedes the main construction phase of the tabernacle (Exod 35–40).
  • Israel remains in the Sinai encampment during this restoration period (Exod 19:2; 35:1).

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Israelite camp: Location of discipline, separation, and renewed obedience (Exod 33:4–6; 35:1–5).
  • Mount Sinai: Location of Moses’ meetings with the LORD and receipt of renewed covenant words (Exod 34:1–4, 27–29).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • The Mosaic Covenant relationship is restored in national continuity (Exod 34:10–28).
  • The Aaronic system and tabernacle service proceed after covenant breach is addressed (Exod 35–40).
  • God’s continued presence with Israel remains the central issue for national progress (Exod 33:14–17).

Why This Matters

  • Intercession and mediation are shown to be essential after covenant violation (Exod 33:12–17).
  • God’s character and covenant faithfulness are declared in the context of restoration (Exod 34:6–7, 10).
  • Obedience resumes in ordered worship and service according to command (Exod 35:4–10).

How This Reading Relates to What Follows

  • Tabernacle construction will be completed and inspected (Exod 36–39).
  • The tabernacle will be erected, and God’s glory will fill it (Exod 40).

Summary Orientation

  • Covenant breach is addressed through intercession.
  • Covenant words are renewed and delivered to the nation.
  • Tabernacle work begins under restored responsibility.
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