Set Apart for Relationship

September 25th, 2023
by Molly Epler

Exodus 19:3-6 (ESV)

…while Moses went up to God. The Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel: ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.”

Reflection

Exodus 19 ushers in the Mosaic covenant, highlighting God’s power, salvation, and dominion over all things. But most importantly, this covenant emphasizes God’s desire to be in relationship with His people. By keeping this covenant, the people of Israel would be conditionally set apart, living under God’s blessing as a witness to the world.

In Luke 22:20 Jesus proclaims, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” Jesus’ finished work on the cross purchased every obligation of the old covenant and puts us in relationship with the Father. Have you stepped into your Exodus moment by accepting Jesus’ new covenant?
Reflect on how Jesus’ covenant differs from the Mosaic covenant in distinguishing our relationship to the Father.
When we accept Jesus, we are set apart as His royal priesthood. Pray over this truth. As you come to God, ask for guidance in honoring others above yourself to glorify and represent Him to the world.