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Exodus 13:21
Verse
Context
The Pillars of Cloud and Fire
20They set out from Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness.21And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day, and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night.22Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people.
Sermons
David Wilkerson
Chuck Missler
J. Vernon McGeeJ. Vernon McGee
Art KatzJ. Vernon McGee
George WarnockSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Lord went before them - That by the Lord here is meant the Lord Jesus, we have the authority of St. Paul to believe, Co1 10:9 : it was he whose Spirit they tempted in the wilderness, for it was he who led them through the desert to the promised rest. Pillar of a cloud - This pillar or column, which appeared as a cloud by day, and a fire by night, was the symbol of the Divine presence. This was the Shechinah or Divine dwelling place, and was the continual proof of the presence and protection of God. It was necessary that they should have a guide to direct them through the wilderness, even had they taken the most direct road; and how much more so when they took a circuitous route not usually traveled, and of which they knew nothing but just as the luminous pillar pointed out the way! Besides, it is very likely that even Moses himself did not know the route which God had determined on, nor the places of encampment, till the pillar that went before them became stationary, and thus pointed out, not only the road, but the different places of rest. Whether there was more than one pillar is not clearly determined by the text. If there was but one it certainly assumed three different appearances, for the performance of Three very important offices. 1. In the day-time, for the purpose of pointing out the way, a column or pillar of a cloud was all that was requisite. 2. At night, to prevent that confusion which must otherwise have taken place, the pillar of cloud became a pillar of fire, not to direct their journeyings, for they seldom traveled by night, but to give light to every part of the Israelitish camp. 3. In such a scorching, barren, thirsty desert, something farther was necessary than a light and a guide. Women, children, and comparatively infirm persons, exposed to the rays of such a burning sun, must have been destroyed if without a covering; hence we find that a cloud overshadowed them: and from what St. Paul observes, Co1 10:1, Co1 10:2, we are led to conclude that this covering cloud was composed of aqueous particles for the cooling of the atmosphere and refreshment of themselves and their cattle; for he represents the whole camp as being sprinkled or immersed in the humidity of its vapours, and expressly calls it a being under the cloud and being baptized in the cloud. To the circumstance of the cloud covering them, there are several references in Scripture. Thus: He spread a Cloud for their Covering; Psa 105:39. And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, A Cloud and Smoke By Day, and the shining of a Flaming Fire by night; for upon all the glory shall be a Defence, (or Covering), Isa 4:5; which words contain the most manifest allusion to the threefold office of the cloud in the wilderness. See Num 9:16-18, etc.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
From Etham, at the edge of the desert which separates Egypt from Asia, the Israelites were to enter the pathless desert, and leave the inhabited country. Jehovah then undertook to direct the march, and give them a safe-conduct, through a miraculous token of His presence. Whilst it is stated in Exo 13:17, Exo 13:18, that Elohim led them and determined the direction of their road, to show that they did not take the course, which they pursued, upon their own judgment, but by the direction of God; in Exo 13:21, Exo 13:22, it is said that "Jehovah went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them the way, and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light, to go by day and night," i.e., that they might march at all hours. (Note: Knobel is quite wrong in affirming, that according to the primary work, the cloud was first instituted after the erection of the tabernacle. For in the passages cited in proof of this (Exo 40:34.; Num 9:15., Exo 10:11-12, cf. Exo 17:7), the cloud is invariably referred to, with the definite article, as something already known, so that all these passages refer to Exo 13:21 of the present chapter.) To this sign of the divine presence and guidance there was a natural analogon in the caravan fire, which consisted of small iron vessels or grates, with wood fires burning in them, fastened at the end of long poles, and carried as a guide in front of caravans, and, according to Curtius (de gestis Alex. M. V. 2, 7), in trackless countries in the front of armies also, and by which the direction of the road was indicated in the day-time by the smoke, and at night by the light of the fire. There was a still closer analogy in the custom of the ancient Persians, as described by Curtius (iii. 3, 9), of carrying fire, "which they called sacred and eternal," in silver altars, in front of the army. But the pillar of cloud and fire must not be confounded with any such caravan and army fire, or set down as nothing more than a mythical conception, or a dressing up of this natural custom. The cloud was not produced by an ordinary caravan fire, nor was it "a mere symbol of the presence of God, which derived all its majesty from the belief of the Israelites, that Jehovah was there in the midst of them," according to Kster's attempt to idealize the rationalistic explanation; but it had a miraculous origin and a supernatural character. We are not to regard the phenomenon as consisting of two different pillars, that appeared alternately, one of cloud, and the other of fire. There was but one pillar of both cloud and fire (Exo 14:24); for even when shining in the dark, it is still called the pillar of cloud (Exo 14:19), or the cloud (Num 9:21); so that it was a cloud with a dark side and a bright one, causing darkness and also lighting the night (Exo 14:20), or "a cloud, and fire in it by night" (Exo 40:38). Consequently we have to imagine the cloud as the covering of the fire, so that by day it appeared as a dark cloud in contrast with the light of the sun, but by night as a fiery splendour, "a fire-look" (כּמראה־אשׁ, Num 9:15-16). When this cloud went before the army of Israel, it assumed the form of a column; so that by day it resembled a dark column of smoke rising up towards heaven, and by night a column of fire, to show the whole army what direction to take. But when it stood still above the tabernacle, or came down upon it, it most probably took the form of a round globe of cloud; and when it separated the Israelites from the Egyptians at the Red Sea, we have to imagine it spread out like a bank of cloud, forming, as it were, a dividing wall. In this cloud Jehovah, or the Angel of God, the visible representative of the invisible God under the Old Testament, was really present with the people of Israel, so that He spoke to Moses and gave him His commandments out of the cloud. In this, too, appeared "the glory of the Lord" (Exo 16:10; Exo 40:34; Num 17:7), the Shechinah of the later Jewish theology. The fire in the pillar of cloud was the same as that in which the Lord revealed Himself to Moses out of the bush, and afterwards descended upon Sinai amidst thunder and lightning in a thick cloud (Exo 19:16, Exo 19:18). It was a symbol of the "zeal of the Lord," and therefore was enveloped in a cloud, which protected Israel by day from heat, sunstroke, and pestilence (Isa 4:5-6; Isa 49:10; Psa 91:5-6; Psa 121:6), and by night lighted up its path by its luminous splendour, and defended it from the terrors of the night and from all calamity (Psa 27:1., Psa 91:5-6); but which also threatened sudden destruction to those who murmured against God (Num 17:10), and sent out a devouring fire against the rebels and consumed them (Lev 10:2; Num 16:35). As Sartorius has aptly said, "We must by no means regard it as a mere appearance or a poetical figure, and just as little as a mere mechanical clothing of elementary forms, such, for example, as storm-clouds or natural fire. Just as little, too, must we suppose the visible and material part of it to have been an element of the divine nature, which is purely spiritual. We must rather regard it as a dynamic conformation, or a higher corporeal form, composed of the earthly sphere and atmosphere, through the determining influence of the personal and specific (specimen faciens) presence of God upon the earthly element, which corporeal form God assumed and pervaded, that He might manifest His own real presence therein." (Note: "This is done," Sartorius proceeds to say, "not by His making His own invisible nature visible, nor yet merely figuratively or ideally, but by His rendering it objectively perceptible through the energy it excites, and the glorious effects it produces. The curtain (velum) of the natural which surrounds the Deity is moved and lifted (revelatur) by the word of His will, and the corresponding intention of His presence (per dextram Dei). But this is effected not by His causing the light of His countenance, which is unapproachable, to burst forth unveiled, but by His weaving out of the natural element a holy, transparent veil, which, like the fiery cloud, both shines and throws a shade, veils and unveils, so that it is equally true that God dwells in light and that He dwells in darkness (Ch2 6:1; Ti1 6:16), as true that He can be found as that He must always be sought.") Exo 13:22 This sign of the presence of God did not depart from Israel so long as the people continued in the wilderness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord went before them--by a visible token of His presence, the Shekinah, in a majestic cloud (Psa 78:14; Neh 9:12; Co1 10:1), called "the angel of God" (Exo 14:19; Exo 23:20-23; Psa 99:6-7; Isa 63:8-9). Next: Exodus Chapter 14
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord went before them,.... Who is called the Angel of the Lord, Exo 14:19, not a created but the uncreated Angel, the Angel of Jehovah's presence, in whom his name, nature, and perfections were, even the Word and Son of God, the Lord Christ, see Co1 10:9 who went before the armies of Israel, as their King, Leader, and Commander: by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; through the Red sea, and the wilderness, at the edge of which they now were, which was untrodden, and trackless, and the way through it very difficult to find; and being a sandy desert, as soon as a path was made, it was immediately covered with sand, and to be seen no more: this cloud was not an ordinary one, but extraordinary, supernatural, and miraculous; in the superior part of it, it was in the form of a pillar, rising upwards towards heaven; in the lower part of it, it was more spread, and covered the camp of Israel; for, besides the use of it to show the way through a trackless wilderness, it was a shelter and protection from the scorching heat of the sun in a sandy desert, where there was scarce anything to screen them from it, to which the allusion is in Isa 4:5 this cloud was an emblem of Christ, who has sometimes appeared clothed with a cloud, Rev 10:1 of the obscurity of his human nature, of the fulness of grace in him, and being in the form of a pillar, of his uprightness, firmness, stability, and visibility in it; and of the use and benefit he is to his people, partly to show them the way in which they should go, by his Spirit and word, and lead them in it by his own example, whom it becomes them to follow, he being a wise, safe, and constant guide; and partly to shelter and protect them from the heat of a fiery law, from the flaming sword of justice, from the wrath of God, from the fiery darts of Satan, and from the furious persecution of wicked men, sometimes compared to the violent heat of the sun, Sol 1:6. and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; whenever they travelled by night, as they sometimes did, and in those hot countries it was very agreeable; and this pillar of fire gave them light when the moon shone not, and was a direction to them which way to go: sometimes it is night with the people of God, a night of darkness and desertion, of drowsiness, sleepiness, and carnal security, or of affliction and distress: Christ is the light and comfort of his people, and by his Spirit and word illuminates, guides, and directs them what to do, and where and how to walk: to go by day or night; to direct them in their journey, whether by night or day: this was but one pillar, though Aben Ezra thinks they were two; but it may be observed they are mentioned as one, and that the pillar of cloud in the night was a cloud of darkness to the Egyptians, and gave light to the Israelites, Exo 14:19, see also Num 9:21 and it is easy to observe that what appears as a cloud or smoke in the daytime, looks like fire in the night: so when Alexander's army was on the march, as a signal,"fire was observed in the night, and smoke by day,''as says the historian (x): nor can, this account of Moses seem incredible to the Heathens themselves, as Clemens of Alexandria observes (y), since they relate a story somewhat similar to this, which they profess to believe; as, that when Thrasybulus brought the exile Grecians from Phyle, and willing to do it secretly, a pillar was his guide, and as he passed in the night through untrodden paths, when the moon shone not, and it was a dark winter night, a light was seen going before him, which brought them safe to Mynichia, and then left them: indeed this was not so extraordinary and miraculous, if true, as this pillar, as Bishop Patrick observes, because it was but for a night, whereas this continued all the forty years in the wilderness, until the Israelites came to Canaan's land, as follows: the Arabic geographer (z) speaks of exhalations arising out of caves at the sides of mountains, which in the daytime looked like smoke, and in the night time like fire. (x) Curtius, l. 5. c. 2. (y) Strom. l. 1. p. 348. (z) Climat. 3. par. 8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:21 The pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire were to be the Israelites’ constant companions for the next forty years.
Exodus 13:21
The Pillars of Cloud and Fire
20They set out from Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness.21And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day, and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night.22Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Ever-Present Help in the Time of Trouble
By David Wilkerson6.5K48:49TroubleEXO 13:21DEU 4:7PSA 34:19PRO 3:6MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a conversation with God. He highlights the fact that God is always near and ready to listen and deliver us from trouble. The speaker encourages believers to have a broken heart and a contrite spirit, as God is near to those who are humble and repentant. He also emphasizes the need to trust in God, as He redeems the souls of His servants and will not leave them desolate. The speaker encourages believers to be avid students of the Word and to seek an intimate walk with the Lord.
Genesis #03 Ch. 1:3-19 Let Light Be
By Chuck Missler6.0K1:28:21GenesisGEN 1:1EXO 13:21JHN 1:7JHN 1:9ACT 17:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a hologram and how it relates to our understanding of God's creation. He explains that a hologram is like a window into a smaller universe, and the size of the window determines the resolution of the image. The speaker emphasizes that his intention is not to teach, but to stimulate the audience to do their own research and study the Scriptures. He also highlights the significance of light in both the book of Genesis and the Gospel of John, emphasizing that Jesus is the true light that came into the world.
(Exodus) Exodus 13:14-19
By J. Vernon McGee4.7K07:16ExpositionalEXO 13:14EXO 13:17EXO 13:19EXO 13:211PE 1:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the journey of the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and into the Promised Land. The Israelites were not initially prepared for warfare, so God led them through the wilderness to spare them from immediate conflict. The speaker emphasizes that God's timing and preparation are important, and that sometimes we need to go through a process before we are ready for what God has planned for us. The speaker also mentions the significance of Moses taking the bones of Joseph with him, as a reminder of God's promise to visit and deliver the Israelites.
(Genesis) Genesis 35:3-13
By J. Vernon McGee4.5K06:18GenesisGEN 35:2GEN 35:5EXO 13:21JOS 1:2MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not wasting our lives as Christians. He draws parallels to the story of the children of Israel who wasted 40 years wandering in the wilderness instead of entering the promised land. The preacher highlights the need for believers to rid themselves of idolatrous practices and fully commit to God. He also emphasizes the significance of the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and now Jacob, as a symbol of God's faithfulness and provision.
Come Up Unto Me
By Art Katz3.8K50:28Extravagance of GodEXO 3:10EXO 13:21EXO 20:1EXO 24:12EXO 32:19EXO 33:18MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Moses spending 40 days and 40 nights on the mountaintop with God. The purpose of this extended period of time was not just to receive the tablets of the law, but for Moses to be emptied of his own intentions and virtues. Through this process, Moses was able to truly encounter God and understand His character, both in meekness and in hot indignation. The speaker highlights the need for the church and the world to have a deeper sense of fear and respect for God, as well as the importance of being in His presence in order to truly be with one another.
(Exodus) Exodus 40:34-38
By J. Vernon McGee3.3K04:34ExodusEXO 13:21EXO 33:9EXO 40:34EXO 40:36EXO 40:38MAT 6:33ROM 9:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Exodus and how it opens in gloom in the brickyards of Egypt but closes in glory. The presence of the Lord is seen in the tabernacle, leading the people through the wilderness. The preacher emphasizes that God wants to deliver people from the slavery of sin and bring them into the glory of His presence. The sermon also highlights the importance of church members being filled with the Holy Spirit and following God's will, rather than spouting their own opinions without reference to the Word of God. The sermon concludes by focusing on the setting up of the tabernacle and how the cloud of the Lord's presence guided the Israelites in their journeys.
Charlotte Seminar 5-27-00 Pm
By George Warnock2.4K1:19:58SeminarEXO 13:21EXO 16:4EXO 17:6PSA 95:1ROM 4:202CO 3:6HEB 3:10In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the Israelites' journey in the wilderness for 40 years. Despite witnessing numerous miracles and provisions from God, the generation of Israelites during that time did not truly know God or understand His ways. The preacher emphasizes the importance of genuine worship and praise, rather than using it as a form of entertainment. He also highlights the faithfulness of God in providing for His people, such as giving them manna from heaven and water from a rock. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's power and victory in the story of Gideon and how God fought for His people.
Rekindling Holy Fire
By Ralph Sexton2.0K40:48Holy FireGEN 22:6EXO 3:2EXO 9:23EXO 12:8EXO 13:21In this sermon, the preacher shares a powerful testimony of a man named Harold who was paralyzed but found joy and purpose in his life through his faith in God. Despite his physical limitations, Harold learned to use his shoulder to dial a phone and share the message of Jesus with others. The preacher emphasizes the importance of returning to the glory and power of God, rather than getting lost in religious rituals and divisions. He also discusses the concept of conviction, explaining that it is a genuine and deep sense of being out of alignment with God's holiness. The preacher concludes by reminding the audience that God is still on the throne and is able to deliver and provide for His people, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
New Beginnings - Passover I
By George Warnock1.6K1:18:53BeginningsEXO 13:21In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of knowing God's ways and the need to avoid erring in our hearts. They emphasize that while God is always doing new things, there are certain principles that remain constant because God does not change. The speaker also highlights the significance of praise and worship, explaining that worship is not just something we do, but something we become. They conclude by referencing Psalm 95 and the concept of true worshipers that Jesus spoke about, emphasizing the hope of seeing God even in the midst of challenges and death.
Go Forward
By G.W. North1.3K1:26:41Christian LifeEXO 3:18EXO 12:15EXO 13:2EXO 13:21EXO 14:21EXO 15:22ECC 4:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of leaders taking initiative and leading by example. He uses the story of Moses leading the Israelites through the Red Sea as an example of this principle. The speaker highlights how Pharaoh and his servants were determined to bring the Israelites back into slavery, but God declared that Israel was His chosen people. The Israelites, however, were initially reluctant and fearful, questioning Moses' decision to lead them out of Egypt. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of trust in God and the triumph that comes from going through tests with Him.
How to Start Taking - Promises
By Steve Mays99636:40Promises Of GodEXO 13:21PSA 119:105ISA 41:10JER 29:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:282PE 1:3In this sermon, Pastor Steve Mays discusses the importance of relying on the promises of God during times of disaster and uncertainty. He emphasizes the need to memorize and meditate on the word of God in order to transform our minds and draw closer to Him. Using the example of a man named Jack who finds himself hanging on the side of a cliff, Pastor Mays illustrates the power of trusting in God's promises. He concludes by highlighting the exceeding great and precious promises given to us through the knowledge of God.
Freedom
By Dai Patterson96500:00EXO 13:21PSA 23:2ISA 61:1LAM 3:1MAT 6:33LUK 4:1ROM 8:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the theme of freedom and liberty. He emphasizes that accepting unfair and wrong things is not necessary, as God can work miracles in our hearts and minds. He uses the example of Joseph, who was able to forget the injustices done to him and move forward in his new life. The preacher also references Psalm 4, highlighting the idea of finding safety and relief in God during times of distress.
The Good Shepherd
By Keith Price91830:20EXO 13:21MAT 6:33JHN 10:1JHN 10:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to the voice of Jesus, who is portrayed as the good shepherd. The speaker uses the analogy of sheep and their relationship with their shepherd to illustrate the relationship between Jesus and his followers. The speaker highlights the trust and love that the sheep have for their shepherd, and how they eagerly follow him because they know he will lead them to good pastures. The sermon also acknowledges that humans, like sheep, have gone astray, but Jesus, as the good shepherd, guides and leads them back to the right path.
The Two Voices of Jericho
By Teresa Conlon69855:45EXO 13:21DEU 31:6JOS 1:9MAT 6:33MAT 11:28JHN 7:37ROM 8:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the Israelites being brought to the border of the promised land. They were shown the abundance and blessings that awaited them, but they also saw the formidable enemies that stood in their way. The speaker emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God in order to enter into the promised land. He highlights the contrast between the promise of God and the unbelief that weighed heavily on the hearts of the Israelites. The sermon encourages listeners to rely on God's word and to overcome their doubts and fears in order to receive the blessings and inheritance that God has for them.
Consuming Fire
By George Verwer53958:34Christian LifeEXO 3:2EXO 13:211KI 18:38MAT 6:33JHN 1:12ACT 2:3HEB 12:29In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal journey of faith and the challenges he faced in his search for truth. He initially questioned the exclusivity of Christianity and explored various religions. However, his encounter with the evangelist Billy Graham and hearing the simple message of the gospel transformed his life. The speaker reflects on his struggles with sin, including lying, gambling, and hatred, and how these habits controlled him. Ultimately, he emphasizes the need for everyone to recognize their sinfulness and the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Schau Auf Jesus (7) (German)
By George Verwer8943:55GermanEXO 13:21MAT 6:33MRK 16:18LUK 4:18ACT 2:41CO 2:5HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who was jogging and suddenly found himself being chased by a tiger. The man tries to evade the tiger by running from side to side, but the tiger continues to pursue him. Eventually, the man turns to face the tiger and says, "Have faith in God." The preacher then relates this story to the biblical account of the Israelites facing seemingly impossible obstacles in the Promised Land. Only two men had the faith to believe that God would give them victory, while the rest doubted. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having faith, the power of prayer, and obedience to God's word in fulfilling God's plan for our lives and for the world.
The Guiding Piller
By Alexander Maclaren0Obedience to GodDivine GuidanceEXO 13:21Alexander Maclaren emphasizes the significance of the guiding pillar in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, illustrating how it symbolizes God's presence and guidance. He explains that while the Israelites relied on a visible pillar of cloud and fire, Christians today have a more profound guide in Jesus Christ, who embodies the light and direction we need. Maclaren highlights the importance of being attentive and obedient to God's guidance, as the Israelites were, and encourages believers to trust in God's timing and direction in their lives. He reminds us that both the stability of the cloud and the brightness of the fire represent God's unwavering presence, adapting to our needs. Ultimately, he calls for a heart that is watchful and ready to follow God's lead, ensuring we remain aligned with His will.
God Knows
By Charles E. Cowman0EXO 13:21JOB 1:21JOB 23:10PSA 23:4PSA 139:7ISA 43:2ROM 8:281CO 10:13HEB 12:6Charles E. Cowman preaches about the comforting assurance that God knows the way His people take, even in the midst of trials and challenges. He highlights the image of God as an Almighty Guide, leading His people through both difficult and joyful paths, refining them like gold in the process. The sermon emphasizes the nearness of God in times of overwhelming distress, reminding believers of His infinite tenderness and compassion that follows them every step of the way.
God's Holy Clouds
By David Wilkerson0Embracing TrialsDivine GuidanceEXO 13:21PSA 23:4PSA 46:10ISA 40:31ISA 41:10ROM 8:282CO 4:17HEB 12:1JAS 1:21PE 5:10David Wilkerson emphasizes that the 'holy clouds' in our lives, often perceived as obstacles or signs of trouble, are actually instruments of divine love and guidance. He illustrates how the Israelites relied on the cloud for direction in the wilderness, teaching that patience and trust in God's timing are essential. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace their trials, understanding that these clouds serve a greater purpose in God's plan, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and deeper faith. He reassures that if we could see the full tapestry of God's design, we would welcome the clouds instead of fearing them.
Israel's Need - and God's Mercy
By James Smith0EXO 13:21DEU 31:8PSA 32:8PSA 48:14PSA 73:24PSA 139:9PRO 3:5ISA 30:21PHP 1:6James Smith preaches about the journey of life from this fleeting world to the eternal world, drawing parallels between the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the promised land and our journey from earth to Heaven. He emphasizes the need for a guide in our spiritual journey, highlighting the long and trying path, numerous foes, dangers, and unbelieving hearts we face. Smith points to God as our ultimate guide, who adapts to our circumstances, provides for our needs, and leads us through every trial until we reach our eternal rest.
Clouds and Darkness Are Round About Him
By A.B. Simpson0God's PresenceTrials and ComfortEXO 13:21PSA 89:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes that the presence of trials and clouds in our lives is a sign of following God's guidance, as seen in the experiences of the disciples who entered the cloud to witness the glory of the transfiguration. He illustrates how the cloud served as both a shelter for the Israelites from the harsh sun and a symbol of God's mercy and truth amidst darkness. The sermon reassures believers that even in difficult times, God's presence is a protective canopy, shielding them from the heat of sorrow and temptation. Ultimately, the clouds signify not only trials but also the promise of God's glorious appearing.
The Pillar
By Henry Law0EXO 13:21PSA 119:105ISA 4:5ISA 30:21JHN 8:12Henry Law preaches on the journey of the children of Israel through the desert, guided by the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night, symbolizing Christ's constant guidance in our lives. Just as the Israelites had to trust in the pillar for direction in the wilderness, believers are reminded that Christ is the unchanging and ever-present guide in their pilgrimage towards heaven. The pillar's unwavering presence and protection in the face of storms and trials reflect the unshakeable strength and reliability of Jesus as our Savior and Shepherd.
Filth and Blood Purged by the Spirit Judgment and the Spirit of Burning
By J.C. Philpot0EXO 13:21PSA 51:14PSA 119:105JHN 17:172CO 7:11HEB 12:152PE 1:19J.C. Philpot preaches about the cleansing work of the Lord in purging the filth of the daughters of Zion and the blood of Jerusalem through the spirit of judgment and burning. He emphasizes the need for individuals and churches to repent, confess, and forsake sin to experience God's presence and glory. The sermon delves into the spiritual significance of the cloud and smoke by day, representing God's presence and the soul's aspirations, and the shining of a flaming fire by night, symbolizing clearer manifestations in dark seasons. Philpot highlights how God's presence serves as a defense against error, evil, temptations, and enemies, safeguarding His people and preserving them blameless.
Letter 161.
By James Bourne0EXO 13:21PSA 32:8PHP 4:6HEB 13:5James Bourne shares his personal testimony of how the Lord directed his path and called him to salvation and spiritual knowledge, despite the doubts and fears of others. He encourages the young friend to earnestly seek God in prayer, both for temporal and spiritual blessings, trusting that God can provide the energy and guidance needed for their pursuits. Bourne emphasizes the importance of being honest and earnest in seeking God's blessing, assuring that God can fit them for any task and lead them in the right way.
The Visible and Glorious Manifestation of Jehovah Over the Earth and in the Earth
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0EXO 13:21ISA 40:5HAB 2:14ZEC 14:5MAT 17:5ACT 1:11COL 3:42TH 2:1REV 19:11Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the bright and wonderful prophecies of the visible and glorious manifestation of Jehovah, emphasizing the literal fulfillment of these promises as real assurances from God. The Divine person to be revealed is Jehovah-Jesus, the God-man, who will come in power and glory, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies. Various Old Testament passages, such as Psalms, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, vividly describe the majestic appearance and power of Jehovah's manifestation, pointing to the future event of His return. The New Testament aligns with these prophecies, affirming the visible and glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ in power and great glory.
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Lord went before them - That by the Lord here is meant the Lord Jesus, we have the authority of St. Paul to believe, Co1 10:9 : it was he whose Spirit they tempted in the wilderness, for it was he who led them through the desert to the promised rest. Pillar of a cloud - This pillar or column, which appeared as a cloud by day, and a fire by night, was the symbol of the Divine presence. This was the Shechinah or Divine dwelling place, and was the continual proof of the presence and protection of God. It was necessary that they should have a guide to direct them through the wilderness, even had they taken the most direct road; and how much more so when they took a circuitous route not usually traveled, and of which they knew nothing but just as the luminous pillar pointed out the way! Besides, it is very likely that even Moses himself did not know the route which God had determined on, nor the places of encampment, till the pillar that went before them became stationary, and thus pointed out, not only the road, but the different places of rest. Whether there was more than one pillar is not clearly determined by the text. If there was but one it certainly assumed three different appearances, for the performance of Three very important offices. 1. In the day-time, for the purpose of pointing out the way, a column or pillar of a cloud was all that was requisite. 2. At night, to prevent that confusion which must otherwise have taken place, the pillar of cloud became a pillar of fire, not to direct their journeyings, for they seldom traveled by night, but to give light to every part of the Israelitish camp. 3. In such a scorching, barren, thirsty desert, something farther was necessary than a light and a guide. Women, children, and comparatively infirm persons, exposed to the rays of such a burning sun, must have been destroyed if without a covering; hence we find that a cloud overshadowed them: and from what St. Paul observes, Co1 10:1, Co1 10:2, we are led to conclude that this covering cloud was composed of aqueous particles for the cooling of the atmosphere and refreshment of themselves and their cattle; for he represents the whole camp as being sprinkled or immersed in the humidity of its vapours, and expressly calls it a being under the cloud and being baptized in the cloud. To the circumstance of the cloud covering them, there are several references in Scripture. Thus: He spread a Cloud for their Covering; Psa 105:39. And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, A Cloud and Smoke By Day, and the shining of a Flaming Fire by night; for upon all the glory shall be a Defence, (or Covering), Isa 4:5; which words contain the most manifest allusion to the threefold office of the cloud in the wilderness. See Num 9:16-18, etc.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
From Etham, at the edge of the desert which separates Egypt from Asia, the Israelites were to enter the pathless desert, and leave the inhabited country. Jehovah then undertook to direct the march, and give them a safe-conduct, through a miraculous token of His presence. Whilst it is stated in Exo 13:17, Exo 13:18, that Elohim led them and determined the direction of their road, to show that they did not take the course, which they pursued, upon their own judgment, but by the direction of God; in Exo 13:21, Exo 13:22, it is said that "Jehovah went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them the way, and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light, to go by day and night," i.e., that they might march at all hours. (Note: Knobel is quite wrong in affirming, that according to the primary work, the cloud was first instituted after the erection of the tabernacle. For in the passages cited in proof of this (Exo 40:34.; Num 9:15., Exo 10:11-12, cf. Exo 17:7), the cloud is invariably referred to, with the definite article, as something already known, so that all these passages refer to Exo 13:21 of the present chapter.) To this sign of the divine presence and guidance there was a natural analogon in the caravan fire, which consisted of small iron vessels or grates, with wood fires burning in them, fastened at the end of long poles, and carried as a guide in front of caravans, and, according to Curtius (de gestis Alex. M. V. 2, 7), in trackless countries in the front of armies also, and by which the direction of the road was indicated in the day-time by the smoke, and at night by the light of the fire. There was a still closer analogy in the custom of the ancient Persians, as described by Curtius (iii. 3, 9), of carrying fire, "which they called sacred and eternal," in silver altars, in front of the army. But the pillar of cloud and fire must not be confounded with any such caravan and army fire, or set down as nothing more than a mythical conception, or a dressing up of this natural custom. The cloud was not produced by an ordinary caravan fire, nor was it "a mere symbol of the presence of God, which derived all its majesty from the belief of the Israelites, that Jehovah was there in the midst of them," according to Kster's attempt to idealize the rationalistic explanation; but it had a miraculous origin and a supernatural character. We are not to regard the phenomenon as consisting of two different pillars, that appeared alternately, one of cloud, and the other of fire. There was but one pillar of both cloud and fire (Exo 14:24); for even when shining in the dark, it is still called the pillar of cloud (Exo 14:19), or the cloud (Num 9:21); so that it was a cloud with a dark side and a bright one, causing darkness and also lighting the night (Exo 14:20), or "a cloud, and fire in it by night" (Exo 40:38). Consequently we have to imagine the cloud as the covering of the fire, so that by day it appeared as a dark cloud in contrast with the light of the sun, but by night as a fiery splendour, "a fire-look" (כּמראה־אשׁ, Num 9:15-16). When this cloud went before the army of Israel, it assumed the form of a column; so that by day it resembled a dark column of smoke rising up towards heaven, and by night a column of fire, to show the whole army what direction to take. But when it stood still above the tabernacle, or came down upon it, it most probably took the form of a round globe of cloud; and when it separated the Israelites from the Egyptians at the Red Sea, we have to imagine it spread out like a bank of cloud, forming, as it were, a dividing wall. In this cloud Jehovah, or the Angel of God, the visible representative of the invisible God under the Old Testament, was really present with the people of Israel, so that He spoke to Moses and gave him His commandments out of the cloud. In this, too, appeared "the glory of the Lord" (Exo 16:10; Exo 40:34; Num 17:7), the Shechinah of the later Jewish theology. The fire in the pillar of cloud was the same as that in which the Lord revealed Himself to Moses out of the bush, and afterwards descended upon Sinai amidst thunder and lightning in a thick cloud (Exo 19:16, Exo 19:18). It was a symbol of the "zeal of the Lord," and therefore was enveloped in a cloud, which protected Israel by day from heat, sunstroke, and pestilence (Isa 4:5-6; Isa 49:10; Psa 91:5-6; Psa 121:6), and by night lighted up its path by its luminous splendour, and defended it from the terrors of the night and from all calamity (Psa 27:1., Psa 91:5-6); but which also threatened sudden destruction to those who murmured against God (Num 17:10), and sent out a devouring fire against the rebels and consumed them (Lev 10:2; Num 16:35). As Sartorius has aptly said, "We must by no means regard it as a mere appearance or a poetical figure, and just as little as a mere mechanical clothing of elementary forms, such, for example, as storm-clouds or natural fire. Just as little, too, must we suppose the visible and material part of it to have been an element of the divine nature, which is purely spiritual. We must rather regard it as a dynamic conformation, or a higher corporeal form, composed of the earthly sphere and atmosphere, through the determining influence of the personal and specific (specimen faciens) presence of God upon the earthly element, which corporeal form God assumed and pervaded, that He might manifest His own real presence therein." (Note: "This is done," Sartorius proceeds to say, "not by His making His own invisible nature visible, nor yet merely figuratively or ideally, but by His rendering it objectively perceptible through the energy it excites, and the glorious effects it produces. The curtain (velum) of the natural which surrounds the Deity is moved and lifted (revelatur) by the word of His will, and the corresponding intention of His presence (per dextram Dei). But this is effected not by His causing the light of His countenance, which is unapproachable, to burst forth unveiled, but by His weaving out of the natural element a holy, transparent veil, which, like the fiery cloud, both shines and throws a shade, veils and unveils, so that it is equally true that God dwells in light and that He dwells in darkness (Ch2 6:1; Ti1 6:16), as true that He can be found as that He must always be sought.") Exo 13:22 This sign of the presence of God did not depart from Israel so long as the people continued in the wilderness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord went before them--by a visible token of His presence, the Shekinah, in a majestic cloud (Psa 78:14; Neh 9:12; Co1 10:1), called "the angel of God" (Exo 14:19; Exo 23:20-23; Psa 99:6-7; Isa 63:8-9). Next: Exodus Chapter 14
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord went before them,.... Who is called the Angel of the Lord, Exo 14:19, not a created but the uncreated Angel, the Angel of Jehovah's presence, in whom his name, nature, and perfections were, even the Word and Son of God, the Lord Christ, see Co1 10:9 who went before the armies of Israel, as their King, Leader, and Commander: by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; through the Red sea, and the wilderness, at the edge of which they now were, which was untrodden, and trackless, and the way through it very difficult to find; and being a sandy desert, as soon as a path was made, it was immediately covered with sand, and to be seen no more: this cloud was not an ordinary one, but extraordinary, supernatural, and miraculous; in the superior part of it, it was in the form of a pillar, rising upwards towards heaven; in the lower part of it, it was more spread, and covered the camp of Israel; for, besides the use of it to show the way through a trackless wilderness, it was a shelter and protection from the scorching heat of the sun in a sandy desert, where there was scarce anything to screen them from it, to which the allusion is in Isa 4:5 this cloud was an emblem of Christ, who has sometimes appeared clothed with a cloud, Rev 10:1 of the obscurity of his human nature, of the fulness of grace in him, and being in the form of a pillar, of his uprightness, firmness, stability, and visibility in it; and of the use and benefit he is to his people, partly to show them the way in which they should go, by his Spirit and word, and lead them in it by his own example, whom it becomes them to follow, he being a wise, safe, and constant guide; and partly to shelter and protect them from the heat of a fiery law, from the flaming sword of justice, from the wrath of God, from the fiery darts of Satan, and from the furious persecution of wicked men, sometimes compared to the violent heat of the sun, Sol 1:6. and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; whenever they travelled by night, as they sometimes did, and in those hot countries it was very agreeable; and this pillar of fire gave them light when the moon shone not, and was a direction to them which way to go: sometimes it is night with the people of God, a night of darkness and desertion, of drowsiness, sleepiness, and carnal security, or of affliction and distress: Christ is the light and comfort of his people, and by his Spirit and word illuminates, guides, and directs them what to do, and where and how to walk: to go by day or night; to direct them in their journey, whether by night or day: this was but one pillar, though Aben Ezra thinks they were two; but it may be observed they are mentioned as one, and that the pillar of cloud in the night was a cloud of darkness to the Egyptians, and gave light to the Israelites, Exo 14:19, see also Num 9:21 and it is easy to observe that what appears as a cloud or smoke in the daytime, looks like fire in the night: so when Alexander's army was on the march, as a signal,"fire was observed in the night, and smoke by day,''as says the historian (x): nor can, this account of Moses seem incredible to the Heathens themselves, as Clemens of Alexandria observes (y), since they relate a story somewhat similar to this, which they profess to believe; as, that when Thrasybulus brought the exile Grecians from Phyle, and willing to do it secretly, a pillar was his guide, and as he passed in the night through untrodden paths, when the moon shone not, and it was a dark winter night, a light was seen going before him, which brought them safe to Mynichia, and then left them: indeed this was not so extraordinary and miraculous, if true, as this pillar, as Bishop Patrick observes, because it was but for a night, whereas this continued all the forty years in the wilderness, until the Israelites came to Canaan's land, as follows: the Arabic geographer (z) speaks of exhalations arising out of caves at the sides of mountains, which in the daytime looked like smoke, and in the night time like fire. (x) Curtius, l. 5. c. 2. (y) Strom. l. 1. p. 348. (z) Climat. 3. par. 8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:21 The pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire were to be the Israelites’ constant companions for the next forty years.