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Book of Exodus - Chapter 33 - Verse 5

33:5
For the LORD had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Exodus, God is speaking to Moses about the children of Israel, referring to them as a stiffnecked people. This term is used to describe a stubborn or rebellious attitude. God warns that He will come into their midst and consume them in a moment because of their disobedience. He instructs them to remove their ornaments as a symbol of repentance and humility. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of humility before God. It teaches us that God's judgment is just and swift, but also that He is willing to forgive and show mercy if we humble ourselves before Him.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Exodus 33:5 highlights the concept of God's holiness and the consequences of disobedience. The term "stiffnecked people" refers to the stubbornness and rebellion of the Israelites against God's commands. In this instance, God warns Moses that because of their disobedience, He will come up and consume them. This reveals the severity of God's judgment towards sin and the importance of obedience. The request for the Israelites to put off their ornaments symbolizes a stripping away of worldly distractions and a call for repentance. The word study of "stiffnecked" reveals a people who are unyielding and resistant to God's will, leading to punishment. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance and humility before God.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people; if I go up into the midst of thee for one moment, I shall consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee.
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