Exodus 34
SIBExodus 34:1
Thus God left a mark of their rebellion on the tables in their not being hewn by himself; yet nevertheless he made his law to retain the same force; and manifested, that it is not graciously inscribed in our hearts till once they be hewn and broken by Moses’ covenant form of it
Exodus 34:13
For privacy and solemnity, to prevent interruption, and perhaps in imitation of the patriarchs, the heathens planted groves, in which they worshipped their idols
REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXXIV.—It is a great mercy to have God’s law bequeathed; but especially written on our hearts when hewn by convictions of sin; and the necessity of reconciliation with God, through Christ, discovered thereby. Ministers must labour to hew men’s hearts: but it is only God who can write divine truths in them. The most ready and believing dispatch is necessary in making up the breaches between God and our soul. But pleasant and transporting indeed are remarkable discoveries of the glory and grace of God! His new covenant name is exactly suited to our sinful and destitute condition! Clear and distinct views thereon produce the boldest pleadings of faith at his throne of grace; and we cannot sufficiently admire that God should so often repeat his promises, warnings, and laws, to us, who are so ignorant, heedless, and forgetful. How great is their safety who live in close fellowship with him! He takes pleasure to honour such as honour him; and clear views of the glory of God beget in his people the most glorious conformity to him, and elevate above all the fears or hopes of nature.—But it is very becoming when those, who are most distinguished with gifts and graces, are, through lowliness of mind, scarcely conscious of their own excellencies! when others are more sensible of our spiritual beauty than we ourselves are!—and when ministers, who have the deepest insight into divine things, accommodate their instructions to their people’s capacity!—In the whole of this breach and reconcilement between God and Israel, let me behold how the law entered that the offence might abound; but, where sin abounded, grace did much more abound; that, as sin had reigned unto death, grace might reign, through righteousness, unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord!