Exodus - Questions on laws, the Tabernacle, the Golden Calf and God's Glory with Dr. Carmen Imes

In our latest “Ask a Scholar” episode, we are honored to feature an enlightening discussion with our special guest, Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, Biblical Scholar, as she shares intriguing aspects of the Book of Exodus focusing on the laws that guided the Israelites, the golden calf, the manifestation of God’s glory, and more. Dr. Imes brings her extensive Bible study expertise, providing deep insights and thoughtful interpretations of these ancient scriptures. This enriching conversation bridges historical context and contemporary relevance. Dr. Carmen Imes emphasizes the significance of the Sabbath and festivals. She explains that the laws given serve a unique purpose. They are not prerequisites for salvation but guidelines for living a life that reflects the identity and values of the Jewish people, who had already been delivered from slavery in Egypt. This distinction underscores that the law is meant to shape a community’s way of life rather than earn divine favor. Dr. Imes highlighted the Sabbath as a tremendous gift and pointed out that this day of rest is a divine provision that allows individuals to step back from their labor, offering them the opportunity to recharge and reconnect with their loved ones and with God.
Furthermore, the festivals keep the stories of the Jewish faith alive. These celebrations transmit the history, values, and identity of the Jewish people from one generation to the next. Dr. Imes also emphasizes the significance of the items, underscoring the principle that God is worthy of our best. The details and instructions for the construction and arrangement underscore the majesty and sacredness of God’s holy presence. Each piece of furniture within the Tabernacle has a distinct function, reflecting different aspects of worship and relationship with God. The bronze laver used for the purification of priests, signifies the necessity of being clean before approaching the divine. The golden lampstand signifies coming into the light of God’s presence. The table with twelve loaves of bread symbolizes the twelve tribes of Israel, indicating their constant fellowship with God and His provision for them. These elements collectively highlight the need for order, reverence, and purity in worship. The concept of the glory of God, often visualized as an awe-inspiring brightness or a radiant glow, is much more than a physical phenomenon.
When Moses asks to see God’s glory, he is yearning for a deeper understanding and encounter with God’s divine essence and presence. It is symbolized by a cloud of fire, a manifestation that combines both mystery and majesty. This depiction aligns with the ancient understanding of glory, implying that God is supremely worthy of honor and reverence. Check out Dr. Carmen Imes’ book - Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters; Bearing Yhwh’s Name at Sinai - A Reexamination of the Name Command of the Decalogue; Being God’s Image: Why Creation Still Matters; and Illustrated Exodus in Hebrew. Stay tuned for the next episode of the “Ask a Scholar” podcast! Click that “follow” button on your favorite podcast-listening app now! Submit your questions and consider becoming a monthly partner! Visit our website at awkng.com/.
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[@jeremyklappauf5985]

Amazing interview. Loved how God's holiness was revealed and how much sacrifice was done just to have that presence in a pin drop location on earth. So thankful Jesus Christ revealed his kingdom is here and coming through his sacrifice, tearing the curtain for an invitation for all to be family. We can all now carry a mirror and reflect the image of God that his son revealed to us.

[@TheLookingGlassAU]

The more I'm exposed to American Evangelical religious lifestyle, the more I just don't understand it. I wonder if those in it recognise how strange the vocabulary is, the pressure to identify as something through behaviour, or to justify identy via behaviour - I just don't get it. It's very odd to me.
Australia has the problem of secularising the church into a cultural institution, Americans seem to want a romantic pseudomystical identity.

[@DiGi377]

Are you following the monthly reading plans on the Awkng website? The questions have been submitted by readers participating in the monthly reading through a book of the Bible. This month will be Leviticus & the reading plans & study guides are free. Last month was Exodus.
Most Evangelical churches do not pay attention to Jewish customs. A few may do a seder meal for Passover - it's a bit of a novelty really.
There's no rule that Christians must observe any Jewish traditions but they can if they want to. I know of someone who grew up in church that did observe those traditions & it was treated very legalistically. He later moved into charismatic churches - as a reaction probably to that legalistic view.
The Baptist format of church service (sermon centered + worship) is very common in US & I think people look for traditions to nourish this bare bones church service. Strip out all symbols & people will miss them! Churches who still follow liturgical tradition have a calendar of traditions to satisfy that need for symbolism & ritual.