Exploring the Scripture

Today’s passage is in the middle of the second part of Exodus (chapters 20–40) that describes the covenant between God and the Israelites. Christian and Jewish traditions credit Moses with writing the story of the exodus. The actual author is unknown.

This passage begins with the Israelites’ observation that Moses’ return from the mountaintop is delayed. Exodus 24:18 states that Moses was gone for 40 days and nights, but it is unclear when the people expected his return.

In Moses’ absence, the people are restless and unsure about what is happening. They turn their attention to Aaron and ask him to “make gods for us” (Exodus 32:1). Aaron directs everyone to collect all the gold in the group which he uses to build a golden calf (vv. 3–4). The people credit the golden calf with their release from bondage. When Aaron hears their claims, he builds an altar. Aaron might be trying to redirect the Israelites’ focus to the Lord (vv. 5–6).

In defense of the Israelites’ actions, some Bible commentaries argue the cow, or at least the altar, was to serve as a “seat” for God or a representation of God. Other commentaries argue the Israelites lacked faithfulness because they viewed the cow as a replacement for Moses and perhaps even God as the center of their devotion. Whatever the case, clearly God is not pleased (see v. 7) with what the Israelites have done and commands Moses to deal with the people. God also specifically names the people as Moses’ people not claiming them as God’s people.

For the rest of this passage (vv. 7–14), God and Moses engage in an emotion-filled conversation. God is angry and frustrated with the people. God calls their actions perverse and refers to “how stiff-necked they are” (v. 9). God’s final argument has eerie parallels to the story of the flood (Genesis 6–9) where God wipes out the wicked people and starts a new nation with Noah. Moses pleads for God’s mercy for the Israelites. He begs God to remember the promises already made by God to Abraham, Isaac, and Irael. In the end, Moses prevails, and God does not destroy the Israelites.

Several important principles can be drawn from this story. First, life as a disciple does not mean that everything is going to be easy. Set free from bondage to follow God’s call, we must commit to the journey and remain faithful even during difficult times. Sometimes this means exercising much patience when circumstances do not unfold as we expect or when leaders are not available when we want their attention.

Second, fear and paranoia often cause communities to act in unfaithful ways. When times are tough, we must work to individually and collectively stay centered on God’s vision for the world. We must avoid building “golden calves.” Also, we are to support prayerfully those called and set apart to lead. When we vote to support priesthood members and other leaders, it means prayerfully trusting them to be faithful leaders who will do their best to fulfill their callings.

Third, when it is a person’s turn to lead, she or he needs to take seriously the responsibility to help keep people focused on Christ’s mission in the world. To do this, leaders must stay in constant conversation with God, praying for guidance and mercy.

Faith Unfiltered Podcast

Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.

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Central Ideas

1. It is easy to forget whose you are when times are tough.
2. It is easy to turn to alternative “gods,” such as the golden calf.
3. It is easy to lose sight of the destination when a journey gets difficult.
4. It is easy for leaders and people to lose their way if they do not remain centered on Christ’s mission.

Questions to Consider

1. What is happening in your congregation right now that creates doubt and fear in people?
2. What attitudes and behaviors do you see as people give in to their doubts and fears?
3. What are potential “golden calves” being “worshiped” by you or your congregation?
4. What words of encouragement and hope can you share to remind people they are God’s children and part of living Christ’s mission on Earth in the best and worst of times?