Exodus 23
BSB1 “You shall not spread a false report. Do not join the wicked by being a malicious witness. 2 You shall not follow the crowd in wrongdoing. When you testify in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd. 3 And do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit. 4 If you encounter your enemy’s stray ox or donkey, you must return it to him. 5 If you see the donkey of one who hates you fallen under its load, do not leave it there; you must help him with it. 6 You shall not deny justice to the poor in their lawsuits. 7 Stay far away from a false accusation. Do not kill the innocent or the just, for I will not acquit the guilty. 8 Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous. 9 Do not oppress a foreign resident, since you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners; for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. 10 For six years you are to sow your land and gather its produce, 11 but in the seventh year you must let it rest and lie fallow, so that the poor among your people may eat from the field and the wild animals may consume what they leave. Do the same with your vineyard and olive grove. 12 For six days you are to do your work, but on the seventh day you must cease, so that your ox and your donkey may rest and the son of your maidservant may be refreshed, as well as the foreign resident. 13 Pay close attention to everything I have said to you. You must not invoke the names of other gods; they must not be heard on your lips. 14 Three times a year you are to celebrate a feast to Me. 15 You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread as I commanded you: At the appointed time in the month of Abib you are to eat unleavened bread for seven days, because that was the month you came out of Egypt. No one may appear before Me empty-handed. 16 You are also to keep the Feast of Harvest with the firstfruits of the produce from what you sow in the field. And keep the Feast of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather your produce from the field. 17 Three times a year all your males are to appear before the Lord GOD. 18 You must not offer the blood of My sacrifices with anything leavened, nor may the fat of My feast remain until morning. 19 Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the LORD your God. You must not cook a young goat in its mother’s milk. 20 Behold, I am sending an angel before you to protect you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. 21 Pay attention to him and listen to his voice; do not defy him, for he will not forgive rebellion, since My Name is in him. 22 But if you will listen carefully to his voice and do everything I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and a foe to your foes. 23 For My angel will go before you and bring you into the land of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Canaanites, Hivites, and Jebusites, and I will annihilate them. 24 You must not bow down to their gods or serve them or follow their practices. Instead, you are to demolish them and smash their sacred stones to pieces. 25 So you shall serve the LORD your God, and He will bless your bread and your water. And I will take away sickness from among you. 26 No woman in your land will miscarry or be barren; I will fulfill the number of your days. 27 I will send My terror ahead of you and throw into confusion every nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn and run. 28 I will send the hornet before you to drive the Hivites and Canaanites and Hittites out of your way. 29 I will not drive them out before you in a single year; otherwise the land would become desolate and wild animals would multiply against you. 30 Little by little I will drive them out ahead of you, until you become fruitful and possess the land. 31 And I will establish your borders from the Red Sea to the Sea of the Philistines, and from the desert to the Euphrates. For I will deliver the inhabitants into your hand, and you will drive them out before you. 32 You shall make no covenant with them or with their gods. 33 They must not remain in your land, lest they cause you to sin against Me. For if you serve their gods, it will surely be a snare to you."
Study Notes — Exodus 23
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Exodus 23
- Themes from Exodus 23
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Exodus 23
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Exodus 23 begins by warning the Israelites against false testimony and injustice, emphasizing the importance of fairness and honesty in all their dealings (Exodus 23:1-3). The chapter then addresses the treatment of the poor and vulnerable, including the obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them (Exodus 23:4-9). The Israelites are also reminded to observe the Sabbath and to trust in God's provision and protection (Exodus 23:10-13). The chapter concludes with a series of warnings against idolatry and the importance of obedience to God's commands (Exodus 23:20-33). Throughout the chapter, God emphasizes His commitment to the Israelites and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles.
Context for the Chapter
Exodus 23 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Exodus, which tells the story of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. The chapter is situated within the context of the giving of the law, where God provides the Israelites with a series of commands and guidelines for living in accordance with His covenant. Exodus 23 is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes God's commitment to His people and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Exodus 23, we are reminded of the importance of living in accordance with God's laws and principles. This includes treating others with fairness and kindness, caring for the poor and vulnerable, and avoiding the temptation of idolatry. By following these principles, we demonstrate our commitment to God and our desire to live in accordance with His will.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Exodus 23 is a chapter about following God's laws and principles. It reminds us to treat others fairly, care for the poor and vulnerable, and avoid idolatry. By following these principles, we show our love and commitment to God. As it says in Exodus 23:20, God sends an angel to guide us and protect us on our journey.
Voices from the Church
“The law of God is not a mere code of rules, but a transcript of His own character. It is a revelation of His holiness, His justice, and His mercy.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Lord has given us His law, not to bind us with chains, but to guide us with a gentle hand, that we may walk in the way of righteousness and peace.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Warning against False Testimony (Exodus 23:1-3) — The chapter begins by warning the Israelites against false testimony and the importance of fairness and honesty in all dealings.
- Care for the Poor and Vulnerable (Exodus 23:4-9) — The chapter highlights God's concern for the poor and vulnerable, reminding the Israelites of their obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them.
- Observance of the Sabbath (Exodus 23:10-13) — The Israelites are reminded to observe the Sabbath and to trust in God's provision and protection.
- Warning against Idolatry (Exodus 23:20-25) — The chapter warns against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods.
- Conclusion and Promise (Exodus 23:26-33) — The chapter concludes with a series of promises and warnings, emphasizing God's commitment to the Israelites and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Justice
- Exodus 23 emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in all dealings, highlighting God's concern for the poor and vulnerable.
- The Care of the Poor
- The chapter reminds the Israelites of their obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them.
- The Dangers of Idolatry
- Exodus 23 warns against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods.
- The Importance of Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of faithfulness.
Lessons from Exodus 23
- The Importance of Fairness and Honesty — Exodus 23 teaches us that fairness and honesty are essential in all our dealings, and that God is concerned with justice and righteousness.
- The Care of the Poor and Vulnerable — The chapter reminds us of our obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them.
- The Dangers of Idolatry — Exodus 23 warns us against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of faithfulness.
- The Promise of God's Presence and Guidance — Exodus 23 promises that God will be with us and guide us, if we follow His laws and principles.
Themes from Exodus 23
- Justice and Fairness — Exodus 23 emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in all dealings, highlighting God's concern for the poor and vulnerable.
- Mercy and Compassion — The chapter highlights God's mercy and compassion, particularly in His treatment of the poor and vulnerable.
- Obedience and Faithfulness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of faithfulness.
- Idolatry and False Worship — Exodus 23 warns against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods.
- God's Presence and Guidance — The chapter promises that God will be with us and guide us, if we follow His laws and principles.
Questions for Meditation
- What does Exodus 23 teach us about the importance of fairness and honesty in all dealings?
- How does the chapter emphasize God's concern for the poor and vulnerable?
- What warnings does the chapter give against idolatry, and why is this important?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands?
- What promises does God make to the Israelites in Exodus 23, and what are the conditions for these promises?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Warning against False Testimony (Exodus 23:1-3)
| 23:1 | The chapter begins by warning the Israelites against false testimony and the importance of fairness and honesty in all dealings. |
| 23:2 | The Israelites are reminded not to follow the crowd in doing wrong, but to stand up for what is right and just. |
2. Care for the Poor and Vulnerable (Exodus 23:4-9)
| 23:4 | The chapter highlights God's concern for the poor and vulnerable, reminding the Israelites of their obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them. |
| 23:5 | The Israelites are reminded to help those in need, even if it means going out of their way to do so. |
3. Observance of the Sabbath (Exodus 23:10-13)
| 23:10 | The Israelites are reminded to observe the Sabbath and to trust in God's provision and protection. |
| 23:11 | The Sabbath is a day of rest, not just for the Israelites, but also for their animals and their servants. |
4. Warning against Idolatry (Exodus 23:20-25)
| 23:20 | The chapter warns against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods. |
| 23:21 | The Israelites are reminded that God will not tolerate idolatry, and that those who worship false gods will be punished. |
5. Conclusion and Promise (Exodus 23:26-33)
| 23:26 | The chapter concludes with a series of promises and warnings, emphasizing God's commitment to the Israelites and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles. |
| 23:27 | God promises to send His angel before the Israelites, to guide them and protect them on their journey. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Exodus 23?
The main theme of Exodus 23 is the importance of following God's laws and principles, particularly in regards to justice, mercy, and obedience. As Exodus 23:20-21 reminds us, God sends an angel to guide and protect us, but we must also follow His commands and avoid idolatry.
How does Exodus 23 relate to the rest of the book of Exodus?
Exodus 23 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Exodus, which tells the story of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. The chapter is situated within the context of the giving of the law, where God provides the Israelites with a series of commands and guidelines for living in accordance with His covenant.
What are some key verses in Exodus 23?
Some key verses in Exodus 23 include Exodus 23:1-3, which warn against false testimony and emphasize the importance of fairness and honesty, and Exodus 23:20-21, which promise that God will send His angel to guide and protect the Israelites.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exodus 23:1 → Deuteronomy 19:15-21 | Both Exodus 23:1 and Deuteronomy 19:15-21 emphasize the importance of fairness and honesty in all dealings, particularly in regards to false testimony. |
| 2 | Exodus 23:4-5 → Leviticus 19:9-10 | Both Exodus 23:4-5 and Leviticus 19:9-10 highlight God's concern for the poor and vulnerable, reminding the Israelites of their obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them. |
| 3 | Exodus 23:10-13 → Deuteronomy 5:12-15 | Both Exodus 23:10-13 and Deuteronomy 5:12-15 emphasize the importance of observing the Sabbath and trusting in God's provision and protection. |
| 4 | Exodus 23:20-21 → Hebrews 1:1-3 | Both Exodus 23:20-21 and Hebrews 1:1-3 emphasize the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods, highlighting God's commitment to His people and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles. |
| 5 | Exodus 23:24-25 → 1 Corinthians 10:14-22 | Both Exodus 23:24-25 and 1 Corinthians 10:14-22 warn against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods. |
| 6 | Exodus 23:26-27 → Psalm 91:1-16 | Both Exodus 23:26-27 and Psalm 91:1-16 promise that God will send His angel to guide and protect His people, if they follow His laws and principles. |
| 7 | Exodus 23:28-30 → Joshua 24:1-28 | Both Exodus 23:28-30 and Joshua 24:1-28 emphasize the importance of following God's laws and principles, particularly in regards to the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of the Israelites in the Promised Land. |
| 8 | Exodus 23:31-33 → Matthew 22:37-40 | Both Exodus 23:31-33 and Matthew 22:37-40 emphasize the importance of loving God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and loving one's neighbor as oneself. |
| 9 | Exodus 23:20 → John 1:1 | Both Exodus 23:20 and John 1:1 emphasize the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods, highlighting God's commitment to His people and His desire for them to live in accordance with His laws and principles. |
| 10 | Exodus 23:21 → Revelation 2:1-7 | Both Exodus 23:21 and Revelation 2:1-7 warn against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods. |
Sermons on Exodus 23
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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I Will Fear No Evil by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being afraid and trusting in God's supernatural deliverance. He uses the example of the Israelites in Exodus, who were |
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How to Have a Personal Revival by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a personal revival. He encourages listeners to set their faces like flint, meaning to have a determined and unwaver |
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Seeking God With All Our Heart by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to reflect on their lives and identify where they may have gone astray from following God. He emphasizes the importance of prior |
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A Pastor's Telling of the Life of a.w. Tozer by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of effective and impactful preaching. He discusses the need to avoid cliches and repetitive phrases, and instead focus on del |
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(Exodus) Exodus 23:1-11 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of following God's laws, specifically focusing on the Sabbath day and the sabbatical year. He emphasizes the need to rest and |
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(Exodus) Exodus 23:14-33 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the laws and guidance given to the Israelites before they enter the promised land. He emphasizes the importance of obeying the angel sent by |
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(Exodus) Exodus 22 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of basing our beliefs and conclusions on the Word of God. He acknowledges that our human nature may tempt us to compromise or |
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Through the Bible - Exodus - Part 1 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being detached from worldly attractions and desires in order to serve God effectively. He uses the example of Moses, who h |
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First Commandment With a Promise by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obeying and yielding to the word of God. He draws parallels between the story of Pharaoh and the choices we have in our ow |
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God's Truth About Alliances (Part 2) by Russell Kelfer | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the consequences of being unequally yoked with the world. He uses the story of Lot from the book of Genesis as an example. Lot had moved in wi |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 23
In Exodus 23, we see the Lord's care for His people, as He provides them with laws and principles for living in accordance with His covenant. The chapter emphasizes the importance of justice, mercy, and obedience, reminding the Israelites of their obligation to follow God's commands and to trust in His provision and protection. As Matthew Henry notes, the Lord's laws are not a burden, but a blessing, for they guide us in the way of righteousness and peace. By following these principles, we demonstrate our love and commitment to God, and we experience the blessings of His presence and guidance in our lives. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Fairness
Throughout Exodus 23, God emphasizes the importance of fairness and honesty in all dealings. This is evident in the warnings against false testimony and the emphasis on treating others with kindness and respect.
The Care for the Poor and Vulnerable
The chapter highlights God's concern for the poor and vulnerable, reminding the Israelites of their obligation to help those in need and to refrain from oppressing or exploiting them.
The Warning against Idolatry
Exodus 23 warns against idolatry, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding the worship of false gods. This warning is repeated throughout the chapter, highlighting the dangers of idolatry and the importance of faithfulness to God.