- Home
- Bible
- Exodus
- Chapter 33
- Verse 33
Exodus 33:20
Verse
Context
The Promise of God’s Presence
19“I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the LORD replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the LORD—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”20But He added, “You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
No man see me, and live - The splendor would be insufferable to man; he only, whose mortality is swallowed up of life, can see God as he is. See Jo1 3:2. From some disguised relation of the circumstances mentioned here, the fable of Jupiter and Semele was formed; she is reported to have entreated Jupiter to show her his glory, who was at first very reluctant, knowing that it would be fatal to her; but at last, yielding to her importunity, he discovered his divine majesty, and she was consumed by his presence. This story is told by Ovid in his Metamorphoses, book iii., table iii., 5.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said, thou canst not see my face,.... Meaning not his form, his essence, his very nature, and the glory of it, that Moses must know he could never see; but the brightest displays of his grace and goodness in Christ, the fullest discoveries of it, which are too much for man, in the present state of things, to have, who sees in part, and but through a glass darkly, not face to face, or in the most complete and perfect manner; it is but a small part and portion of God, and of his ways and works, as of creation and providence, so more especially of grace, salvation, and redemption by Jesus Christ, that is known of him; the things of the Gospel in their full perfection are what eye has not seen; and particularly were more hidden and unseen under the legal dispensation; this face was covered with types and shadows, and dark representations of things; though, in comparison of that state, we now, with open face, behold the glory of the Lord, yet still it is through a glass darkly, and we have not the clear and full view of things as will be hereafter: for there shall no man see me and live: if there was to be such a revelation made of the grace and goodness, and glory of God in Christ, as it really is in itself, it would be too much for mortals in the present state to bear; it would break their earthen vessels in pieces; the full discovery therefore is reserved to a future state, when these things will be seen as they are, and men will be in a condition to receive them; otherwise we find that men have, in a sense, seen the face of God in this life, and have lived; though many, and even good men, have been possessed with such a notion, that if a man saw God he must die, see Gen 32:30.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
33:20-23 God longs to show us his character, but to see his face (his essence) and his glorious presence (33:22) would be to die. Moses was permitted a glimpse of that, but nothing more.
Exodus 33:20
The Promise of God’s Presence
19“I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the LORD replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the LORD—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”20But He added, “You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Enemy of Revival - Part 2 (Cd Quality)
By Leonard Ravenhill7.0K51:19RevivalEXO 33:20JDG 14:62KI 2:9ISA 6:5DAN 11:322TI 2:15JAS 5:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Samson from the Bible. He highlights how Samson was a powerful man who performed great feats, such as ripping the gates of a city and killing a lion. However, Samson's downfall came when he was betrayed by his own people and captured by his enemies. The preacher emphasizes the importance of humility and confessing one's faults before God, using examples of individuals who were once respected but fell into sin. He concludes by urging the audience to seek God's forgiveness and transformation in their lives.
The Holiness of God - Part 3
By A.W. Tozer4.8K17:20Holiness Of GodGEN 18:25EXO 33:20ISA 6:3MAT 6:33ACT 13:2ROM 8:26HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holiness and the need for individuals to give account of their deeds before God. He highlights the urgency of seeking forgiveness and confessing one's sins, as God is a consuming fire. The preacher laments the lack of reverence for God in modern times and criticizes interpretations that downplay the significance of holiness. He urges listeners to have a deep understanding of the overwhelming holiness of God and to approach Him with a sense of awe and conviction.
Mind the Light
By Erlo Stegen1.4K1:00:15Light Of GodEXO 33:20ISA 6:1MAT 4:16ROM 13:11EPH 5:11EPH 5:141JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's own life and the impact they have on others. He urges listeners to consider whether they are living according to the Bible and if they are shining the light of God's holiness in the world. The preacher acknowledges the darkness and immorality present in the world but encourages believers to be lighthouses and spread the gospel. He shares a personal experience of a powerful repentance moment and highlights the urgency of repentance and turning away from sin. The sermon also touches on the issue of people not listening and falling asleep in church, leading to spiritual death. The preacher warns against the influence of false teachings, such as the denial of hell, and emphasizes the richness of Africa, not in material wealth but in spiritual potential.
Circumstantial Happiness
By Jack Hyles1.2K37:40EXO 33:20MAT 16:26PHP 3:10REV 21:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing God in order to endure the hardships and challenges of life. He gives examples of biblical figures such as Paul, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, John, and Moses who were able to face difficult circumstances because they knew God personally. The preacher encourages the audience to spend time with God and develop a deep relationship with Him. He also highlights the joy and contentment that comes from knowing God, even in the midst of trials and losses.
Moving Forward in Faith
By Ron Corcoran1.0K42:10RenewalEXO 33:20MAT 6:33HEB 11:6HEB 12:1In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of being consistent in our Christian walk, whether in public or private. He encourages the congregation to use their God-given gifts and talents for His glory. The pastor also emphasizes the need for commitment to the church and the community. He shares about a conference he attended where they experienced joy and laughter, and some members of the congregation suggested he incorporate that into his sermons. The pastor concludes by sharing a personal revelation of seeing God as a friend and brother, rather than a harsh taskmaster. He reflects on God's faithfulness throughout his ministry and encourages the congregation to have faith like the saints who have gone before us.
(Colossians) the Pre-Eminence of Christ
By Brian Brodersen89751:43GEN 32:30EXO 33:20MAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 14:6COL 1:14HEB 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering that God created the earth and each individual. He suggests that observing a full moon on a clear night can serve as a reminder of God's creation. The speaker also discusses the approach of presenting the truth about Jesus Christ in an irresistible manner, highlighting his divine nature and glory. The sermon warns against being influenced by doctrines contrary to biblical teachings about Christ and emphasizes the need to prioritize and submit to Jesus as Lord to have true life and eternal assurance.
God's Provision for the Children of Israel
By Chuck Smith87725:06ProvisionEXO 33:11EXO 33:20NUM 11:31NUM 12:7DAN 2:1MAT 6:33In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the provision of God for the children of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness. He begins by highlighting the contrasting realities of the world falling apart and the Lord building his church. Pastor Chuck emphasizes the exciting adventure of being a missionary and shares about the mission conference focused on Jesus building his church. He then transitions to the story of Moses sending twelve spies to explore the land of Canaan and bring back a report. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's presence and blessings upon the listeners.
(Radical Jesus) 17 Radical Holiness
By Glenn Meldrum47124:54HolinessEXO 33:8EXO 33:20REV 4:8REV 5:9REV 6:16REV 14:10REV 15:4In this sermon, Glenn Meldrum discusses the importance of having a high view of God as revealed in the Scriptures. He emphasizes that our spiritual and moral growth is directly linked to our understanding of God. By studying the radical nature of Jesus as portrayed in the Bible, we can gain a fresh perspective on who He is and what it means to be Christ-like. Meldrum also highlights the inner conflict that arises when encountering the holiness of God, using the example of Peter's fishing experience in Luke chapter 5. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to deepen their understanding of Jesus and strive for spiritual maturity.
Show Me Thy Glory!
By George Warnock1Transformation through ChristDesire for God's PresenceEXO 33:20JHN 1:14ROM 6:42CO 5:17GAL 2:20PHP 3:10COL 3:3HEB 10:191JN 3:2REV 22:4George Warnock emphasizes Moses' deep desire to see God's glory, illustrating the profound longing for a more intimate revelation of God beyond just witnessing His past works. He reflects on God's declaration that no man can see Him and live, yet Moses yearns for a direct encounter, seeking to experience God's glory in a transformative way. Warnock suggests that while Moses received glimpses of God's presence, the ultimate revelation of God's glory is reserved for the New Covenant believers, who can experience life through Christ's sacrifice. The sermon calls for believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, desiring to see Him in His fullness so that they may die to their old selves and live anew in His resurrection power.
The Recompense of Prayer
By Samuel Chadwick0EXO 17:11EXO 33:20EXO 34:29PSA 91:1JAS 5:16Samuel Chadwick preaches on the power and importance of private prayer, emphasizing that God rewards those who seek Him in secret. He explores the transformative nature of prayer, highlighting how it changes individuals and brings revelation, power, and fellowship with God. Using Moses as an example, Chadwick illustrates how the mount of God symbolizes a place of sanctity, revelation, power, and communion with the Almighty.
Of the Nature of God.
By John Gill0Understanding GodThe Nature of GodEXO 33:20JHN 4:22ACT 17:29ROM 1:20GAL 4:8PHP 2:6COL 2:9HEB 11:62PE 1:41JN 4:16John Gill explores the profound nature of God, emphasizing that while God's essence is incomprehensible to human understanding, it is essential to recognize Him as the ultimate Creator, distinct from all created beings. He asserts that God is a Spirit, not corporeal, and possesses a divine nature that is shared equally among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit without division. Gill highlights that God's attributes, such as omniscience and omnipotence, reflect His simplicity and unity, and that our understanding of God should be rooted in both natural revelation and divine scripture. He encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of God, despite the limitations of human comprehension, and to worship Him in spirit and truth.
The Unknowable God
By Joseph Parker0EXO 33:20MAT 6:9JHN 1:18ROM 1:28Joseph Parker preaches about the mystery of God being both unknown and unknowable, emphasizing that the limitations of human understanding cannot fully grasp the essence of God. He challenges the notion of trying to confine God within human logic or theological propositions, highlighting the beauty of God's mystery and the hope found in seeking Him despite His incomprehensibility. Parker encourages a shift in perspective from viewing God as merely Unknowable to embracing Him as Superknowable, Supervisible, and Supercomprehensible, allowing for a deeper and more luminous understanding of the divine.
Day 260, Revelation 22
By David Servant0GEN 2:9EXO 33:20EZK 47:122PE 3:8REV 22:2David Servant delves into the final chapter of the Bible, Revelation 22, highlighting the similarities between the river of the water of life mentioned by John and what Ezekiel and Zechariah saw centuries earlier. He emphasizes the significance of the tree of life, which appears both at the beginning and end of the Bible, symbolizing healing and eternal life. Servant discusses the promise of believers seeing the face of God and the transformation of our glorified bodies to handle such encounters. He reflects on John's moments of mistakenly worshipping angels during his visions, showcasing the overwhelming nature of divine experiences. Servant concludes by underlining the importance of repentance, obedience, and the eternal rewards offered by God's mercy, urging listeners to align their lives with these truths.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
No man see me, and live - The splendor would be insufferable to man; he only, whose mortality is swallowed up of life, can see God as he is. See Jo1 3:2. From some disguised relation of the circumstances mentioned here, the fable of Jupiter and Semele was formed; she is reported to have entreated Jupiter to show her his glory, who was at first very reluctant, knowing that it would be fatal to her; but at last, yielding to her importunity, he discovered his divine majesty, and she was consumed by his presence. This story is told by Ovid in his Metamorphoses, book iii., table iii., 5.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said, thou canst not see my face,.... Meaning not his form, his essence, his very nature, and the glory of it, that Moses must know he could never see; but the brightest displays of his grace and goodness in Christ, the fullest discoveries of it, which are too much for man, in the present state of things, to have, who sees in part, and but through a glass darkly, not face to face, or in the most complete and perfect manner; it is but a small part and portion of God, and of his ways and works, as of creation and providence, so more especially of grace, salvation, and redemption by Jesus Christ, that is known of him; the things of the Gospel in their full perfection are what eye has not seen; and particularly were more hidden and unseen under the legal dispensation; this face was covered with types and shadows, and dark representations of things; though, in comparison of that state, we now, with open face, behold the glory of the Lord, yet still it is through a glass darkly, and we have not the clear and full view of things as will be hereafter: for there shall no man see me and live: if there was to be such a revelation made of the grace and goodness, and glory of God in Christ, as it really is in itself, it would be too much for mortals in the present state to bear; it would break their earthen vessels in pieces; the full discovery therefore is reserved to a future state, when these things will be seen as they are, and men will be in a condition to receive them; otherwise we find that men have, in a sense, seen the face of God in this life, and have lived; though many, and even good men, have been possessed with such a notion, that if a man saw God he must die, see Gen 32:30.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
33:20-23 God longs to show us his character, but to see his face (his essence) and his glorious presence (33:22) would be to die. Moses was permitted a glimpse of that, but nothing more.