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Exodus 34:29
Verse
Context
The LORD Renews the Covenant
28So Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments.29And when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was unaware that his face had become radiant from speaking with the LORD.30Aaron and all the Israelites looked at Moses, and behold, his face was radiant. And they were afraid to approach him.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The skin of his face shone - קרן karan, was horned: having been long in familiar intercourse with his Maker, his flesh, as well as his soul, was penetrated with the effulgence of the Divine glory, and his looks expressed the light and life which dwelt within. Probably Moses appeared now as he did when, in our Lord's transfiguration, he was seen with Elijah on the mount, Matthew 17. As the original word קרן karan signifies to shine out, to dart forth, as horns on the head of an animal, or rays of light reflected from a polished surface, we may suppose that the heavenly glory which filled the soul of this holy man darted out from his face in coruscations, in that manner in which light is generally represented. The Vulgate renders the passage, et ignorabat quod cornuta esset facies sua, "and he did not know that his face was horned;" which version, misunderstood, has induced painters in general to represent Moses with two very large horns, one proceeding from each temple. But we might naturally ask, while they were indulging themselves in such fancies, why only two horns? for it is very likely that there were hundreds of these radiations, proceeding at once from the face of Moses. It was no doubt from this very circumstance that almost all the nations of the world who have heard of this transaction, have agreed in representing those men to whom they attributed extraordinary sanctity, and whom they supposed to have had familiar intercourse with the Deity, with a lucid nimbus or glory round their heads. This has prevailed both in the east and in the west; not only the Greek and Roman saints, or eminent persons, are thus represented, but those also among the Mohammedans, Hindoos, and Chinese.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him--It was an intimation of the exalted presence into which he had been admitted and of the glory he had witnessed (Co2 3:18); and in that view, it was a badge of his high office as the ambassador of God. No testimonial needed to be produced. He bore his credentials on his very face; and whether this extraordinary effulgence was a permanent or merely temporary distinction, it cannot be doubted that this reflected glory was given him as an honor before all the people.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh,.... That is, after Aaron and the rulers had had a conversation with Moses, then the whole body of the people by turns were admitted to come before him, and hear the laws of God from him: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him on Mount Sinai; besides the two tables of stone, and the testimony written on them, he gave them all the other commands he was ordered to write in a book, and which are recorded in this chapter; he kept back nothing from them, but enjoined them to keep all the Lord had commanded.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
34:29-35 Moses, who had asked to see the glory of God, wasn’t aware that his own face reflected that glory.
Exodus 34:29
The LORD Renews the Covenant
28So Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments.29And when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was unaware that his face had become radiant from speaking with the LORD.30Aaron and all the Israelites looked at Moses, and behold, his face was radiant. And they were afraid to approach him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Man Who Didn't Want the Job
By Warren Wiersbe5.3K1:02:39EXO 32:7EXO 34:29In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges and criticisms faced by Moses during his ministry. Despite the difficulties, Moses remained focused on the glory of God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing God's glory in four specific occasions in our own ministry. The sermon also highlights the need to continually grow and not become complacent in our service to God.
New Covenant Greater Then the Old Covenant
By Alan Martin2.3K00:00New CovenantEXO 34:29EZK 36:22JHN 15:3ROM 6:4EPH 5:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God accomplished His plan of salvation not through a judicial decree, but by sending His very life, the fullness of God, in the form of Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, the Spirit of the Father is poured out on believers, filling them and enabling them to bring glory to God through their good works. The preacher acknowledges that believers may still struggle with sinful desires, but under the leadership of Jesus, they can overcome these desires and live by the Spirit. By cooperating with God in the process of cutting away their old nature, believers can experience the glory that comes from being transformed by the Spirit. The preacher encourages believers to demonstrate God's holiness in their lives and to believe in the power of God, as demonstrated in the resurrection of Jesus.
(Matthew) ch.16:13-17:8
By Zac Poonen2.2K50:39EXO 34:29MAT 6:33MAT 17:1MAT 17:6MAT 17:82TI 1:71PE 5:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of valuing our souls over worldly possessions and achievements. They explain that Jesus taught that gaining the whole world would mean forfeiting our souls. The speaker highlights the immense value of a human soul, stating that it outweighs everything the world can offer. They urge listeners to prioritize eternal matters and live for the things of God rather than temporal pursuits. The sermon also discusses Jesus' return and the concept of being rewarded according to our deeds and motives in the day of judgment.
Through the Bible - John - Part 1
By Zac Poonen2.2K58:04EXO 34:29MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MAT 18:3JHN 4:46JHN 5:2JHN 10:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a burden to save people rather than just distributing tracks. He uses the example of Jesus and his disciples being hungry in Samaria to illustrate the attitude we should have when faced with physical needs. The speaker encourages the audience to prioritize doing the will of God and finishing His work as their main focus. He also highlights the significance of living a life that reflects the message of Jesus, inviting others to come and see the transformation in their own lives.
God's Glory
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K1:05:00EXO 34:29JHN 15:11JHN 16:33ACT 4:132CO 3:18HEB 12:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of beholding the glory and majesty of God, reflecting His character in our lives. It highlights the transformation that occurs when we spend time in His presence, absorbing His peace, joy, and holiness. The speaker encourages a deep intimacy with God, seeking His glory above all else, and living a life that reflects the beauty of Christ to the world.
Logos in Language
By Dr. A.E. Wilder-Smith1.7K52:03LogosEXO 34:29ISA 55:122CO 3:14GAL 5:24In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a story about killer sharks and their ability to communicate with their trainers. He then transitions to discussing the role of the logos (the Word of God) in biology and communication, specifically for humans. The speaker references 2 Corinthians 3:12 and highlights how Moses' face shone after communicating with God. He explains that God wants to restore our inward world of thought to align with His, which is characterized by qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The sermon concludes with a reminder to live by the Spirit and walk in accordance with God's principles.
Making of a Man of God
By Robert Arthur1.4K56:21Man Of GodEXO 34:292KI 2:2JHN 1:29In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of Elisha and Gehazi from the Bible. He suggests that the judgment that befell Gehazi and the people was a result of their own actions and not a direct command from God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having a tested faith, heart, and will, and how these tests can reveal the need for God's power in our lives. He then transitions to the Gospel of John, highlighting the spiritual glory found in Jesus Christ and the opportunity to catch glimpses of this glory through the Bible. The sermon concludes with a reference to Moses and the Old Covenant, emphasizing the passing nature of the Old Covenant and the need to see the departing glory.
Something on My Nose (Comedy)
By George Verwer1.3K01:14EXO 34:291SA 16:7PSA 23:4PRO 16:18MAT 6:191CO 1:27PHP 4:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal anecdote about a growth on his nose, which has humbled him in recent months. He mentions discussing it with his doctor and the frustration of having to comb his hair around it. The speaker also recalls a conversation with someone who pointed out the growth on his nose. He humorously reflects on the aging process, mentioning the growth of hairs in his ears as a sign of getting older. The sermon concludes with a lighthearted remark about never reaching the top of the hill in life.
Matthew 23:17
By William MacDonald1.3K34:26PhariseesEXO 34:29PSA 126:5MAT 23:171PE 5:7In this sermon, the preacher warns against the danger of trading away one's spiritual birthright for temporary pleasures. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing righteousness and divine communion over worldly desires. The preacher also encourages believers to cast their cares upon God, highlighting His care and provision for His people. Additionally, he challenges listeners to live sacrificially and invest their resources in the work of the Lord, such as missions, spreading the gospel, and supporting the local church.
The Reluctant God - Part 8
By G.W. North6041:24:44MosesEXO 23:19EXO 25:8EXO 34:29EXO 40:2EXO 40:17EXO 40:27EXO 40:32In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Exodus 34:27, where God instructs Moses to write down the words of the covenant He has made with Israel. The speaker highlights the significance of God's command to not cook a kid in its mother's milk, emphasizing the sentimentality and love behind this instruction. Moses, after spending 40 days and nights with God, realizes the greatness of the God he is dealing with. The speaker emphasizes the importance of experiencing God's presence and having meetings that are a foretaste of heaven. Moses obediently writes down God's instructions and prepares to lead the people to worship God three times a year, even though they are far away and have to travel long distances. The speaker concludes by expressing gratitude for the series on the life of Moses and suggests the title "Moses, the God-man."
Praying Like Christ
By William M. Clow0EXO 34:29PSA 34:5MAT 17:2ACT 6:152CO 3:18William M. Clow delves into the transfiguration of Jesus, emphasizing how prayer can lead to a transformation of one's inner being, illuminating their face with the radiance of God's presence. He contrasts our imperfect prayers with Jesus' perfect trust and unclouded assurance in God, highlighting the potential for believers to experience a similar transfiguration through deep communion with God. Just as Moses and Stephen's faces shone with heavenly light due to their encounters with God, Christ's transfiguration reveals the inner ecstasy of His spirit as He fully consecrated Himself to God's will during prayer.
The Glory of Israel Fades Away
By George Warnock0Spiritual WarfareObedience to GodEXO 34:29JDG 3:11SA 2:29ISA 43:19ROM 8:132CO 3:7GAL 5:17HEB 12:11JN 2:15REV 3:15George Warnock discusses the decline of Israel's glory after they settled in Canaan, emphasizing their failure to fully obey God's command to destroy the idolatrous nations. This coexistence with their enemies led to spiritual defeat, as the subdued became their masters. Warnock highlights the fading glory of the Tabernacle and the negligence of Eli, who prioritized his sons over God's commands, warning that similar complacency exists in the Church today. He reassures that God is preparing a 'Samuel' people to rise from the decay of the old religious order, bringing forth a new and vibrant movement. The sermon calls for a return to earnest obedience and a longing for the abundant life in the Spirit.
The Glitter and the Glory
By John Fischer0EXO 34:29ROM 8:292CO 3:72CO 3:18PHP 2:151PE 4:14John Fischer preaches about the distinction between the glitter of popular culture and the real glory of God, emphasizing the danger of confusing the two. He highlights how the media has influenced Christianity's popularity, leading to a shift in perception of what it means to be a Christian. Fischer draws parallels between the fading glory of Moses, representing human effort and performance under the Law, and the surpassing glory of the Spirit, which brings grace, forgiveness, and power for Christian living.
The Glory of Moses' Countenance
By George Warnock0EXO 34:29ISA 58:13JHN 7:182CO 3:13HEB 4:3George Warnock emphasizes the importance of being conscious of the presence and glory of God in prayer, highlighting how Moses' face shone from talking with God, signifying true conversation with Him. Warnock stresses the need to listen to God's voice and do His will, rather than solely focusing on our own desires. He discusses the significance of resting in God's plan, ceasing from our own striving, and allowing God to work in us to honor Him. Warnock encourages ministers to seek God's glory in their messages, reminding them of the necessity of abiding in God's presence for effective ministry.
The Little Child Spirit
By John Hames0EXO 34:29PRO 16:18MAT 5:7MAT 18:3PHP 2:3John Hames preaches on the importance of having a childlike spirit in order to enter the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing characteristics such as honesty, teachability, charity, tenderness, trust, humility, and receptiveness to reproof. He urges believers to emulate the qualities of a little child, free from guile, suspicion, worry, self-conceit, and back-talk, and to fully trust in God's Word without doubt. Hames warns against pride and self-importance, encouraging humility and a gentle, merciful demeanor in all interactions.
The Shining Face
By T. Austin-Sparks0Inner TransformationThe Glory of GodEXO 34:29T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of the 'shining face' as a reflection of one's relationship with God, drawing parallels from the lives of Moses, Daniel, Stephen, and Paul. He explains that true radiance comes not from external circumstances but from an internal connection with the Lord, which manifests as peace and joy even in adversity. Sparks highlights that being occupied with Jesus and understanding His glory leads to a transformation that others can see, even if we are unaware of it ourselves. The sermon encourages believers to focus on God's vision and the reality of Christ within them to maintain a shining testimony in challenging times.
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.
The Holy Place
By John Hames0EXO 34:29PSA 119:105PRO 20:27MAT 5:16JHN 8:122CO 3:18PHP 2:15HEB 6:41JN 1:7REV 10:8John Hames preaches on the significance of the tabernacle's two apartments, representing the two works of grace, and the articles within the holy place - the seven-pronged candlestick, table of shewbread, and golden altar of incense - symbolizing the Holy Ghost's role in revealing Christ. He emphasizes the importance of depending on the Holy Ghost for spiritual illumination rather than human knowledge, to avoid falling into unbelief and denial of Christ's deity. Hames highlights the transformative power of the Holy Ghost, making believers shine with God's light, and the necessity of walking in the light to maintain spiritual vitality and effectiveness in ministry.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The skin of his face shone - קרן karan, was horned: having been long in familiar intercourse with his Maker, his flesh, as well as his soul, was penetrated with the effulgence of the Divine glory, and his looks expressed the light and life which dwelt within. Probably Moses appeared now as he did when, in our Lord's transfiguration, he was seen with Elijah on the mount, Matthew 17. As the original word קרן karan signifies to shine out, to dart forth, as horns on the head of an animal, or rays of light reflected from a polished surface, we may suppose that the heavenly glory which filled the soul of this holy man darted out from his face in coruscations, in that manner in which light is generally represented. The Vulgate renders the passage, et ignorabat quod cornuta esset facies sua, "and he did not know that his face was horned;" which version, misunderstood, has induced painters in general to represent Moses with two very large horns, one proceeding from each temple. But we might naturally ask, while they were indulging themselves in such fancies, why only two horns? for it is very likely that there were hundreds of these radiations, proceeding at once from the face of Moses. It was no doubt from this very circumstance that almost all the nations of the world who have heard of this transaction, have agreed in representing those men to whom they attributed extraordinary sanctity, and whom they supposed to have had familiar intercourse with the Deity, with a lucid nimbus or glory round their heads. This has prevailed both in the east and in the west; not only the Greek and Roman saints, or eminent persons, are thus represented, but those also among the Mohammedans, Hindoos, and Chinese.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him--It was an intimation of the exalted presence into which he had been admitted and of the glory he had witnessed (Co2 3:18); and in that view, it was a badge of his high office as the ambassador of God. No testimonial needed to be produced. He bore his credentials on his very face; and whether this extraordinary effulgence was a permanent or merely temporary distinction, it cannot be doubted that this reflected glory was given him as an honor before all the people.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh,.... That is, after Aaron and the rulers had had a conversation with Moses, then the whole body of the people by turns were admitted to come before him, and hear the laws of God from him: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him on Mount Sinai; besides the two tables of stone, and the testimony written on them, he gave them all the other commands he was ordered to write in a book, and which are recorded in this chapter; he kept back nothing from them, but enjoined them to keep all the Lord had commanded.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
34:29-35 Moses, who had asked to see the glory of God, wasn’t aware that his own face reflected that glory.