Exodus 34:29-35 - Homilies By J. Orr

The shining face.

Consider—

I. THE SHINING OF MOSES ' FACE ( Exodus 34:29 , Exodus 34:30 ).

II. THE FEAR OF THE PEOPLE ( Exodus 34:30 ). The beauty of the glory had something of terror in it. Symbol of the dispensation—"a ministration of death" ( 2 Corinthians 3:7 ). See sermon by Dr. John Ker on Moses and Stephen—"The Old Testament and the New".

III. THE VEIL (verses 31-33). The notable fact is that Moses did not veil his face during the time when veiling might seem to be most required, viz; while speaking to the people. The commandments were delivered with the face unveiled. When he had "done" speaking, Moses put this screen before it. The act, therefore, must be taken as symbolic. A symbol—

1 . Of the veiled character of the dispensation —types, carnal ordinances, "broken lights," etc. Its "end" was not manifest.

2 . Of the veiled hearts of the people . This kept them from perceiving even what might have been seen (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 ). The Gospel, in contrast with the law, is an unveiled system ( 2 Corinthians 3:14 ). Preachers of the gospel, bearing this in mind, should use" great plain-hess of speech" (verses 11, 12). The later system provides further for the removal of the veil from the heart (verses 16, 17). It ministers "the Spirit."

IV. THE VEIL TAKEN OFF ON ENTERING THE SANCTUARY (verses 34, 35). "When Moses went in before the Lord," etc. Again symbolic—

1 . Of what is necessary for the removal of the veil from the heart . It must "turn to the Lord" ( 2 Corinthians 3:16 ). The instant it does so the veil will be taken away (verse 16).

2 . Of the privilege of Christian believers . They are admitted to gaze "with unveiled face" on the "glory of the Lord" (verse 18).

V. RESEMBLANCES AND CONTRASTS . Compare and contrast the privilege of Moses with that now enjoyed by believers in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 3:18 ).

1 . Resemblances .

2 . Contrasts .