Exodus 20:19

And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.

Cross-references

Exodus 33:20 states no one can see God and live, reinforcing the people's fear that direct divine speech would kill them.

Exodus 19:8 Contrast

Exodus 19:8 records the people's eager obedience before the law, contrasting with their terrified request for mediation after the theophany.

Exodus 18:19 advises Moses to be the people's representative before God, matching the role he fills when they ask him to speak for them.

Deuteronomy 18:16 directly quotes the people's request at Horeb, confirming Moses as mediator and leading to the prophet like Moses promise.

Deuteronomy 4:11 Historical context

Deuteronomy 4:11 describes the same fiery mountain scene at Horeb, reinforcing the terrifying setting that prompted the people's request.

Deuteronomy 4:33 Historical context

Deuteronomy 4:33 recalls the same event, emphasizing that Israel heard God's voice and survived, mirroring the people's fear in Exodus.

Deuteronomy 5:23 Historical context

Deuteronomy 5:23 recounts the same scene of the people approaching Moses after hearing God's voice, reinforcing their request for mediation.

Deuteronomy 5:27 repeats the people's plea for Moses to be their mediator, directly echoing the request in Exodus.

Luke 5:8 Parallel

Luke 5:8 has Peter asking Jesus to depart due to his sinfulness, echoing the Israelites' fear of divine presence in Exodus.

John 5:37 Contrast

John 5:37 states the people have never heard God's voice, contrasting with Exodus where they heard and begged it to stop. Highlights need for Jesus as mediator.

Galatians 3:19 explains the law was given through a mediator because of transgressions. Exodus 20:19 shows the people requesting that mediator, Moses.

Hebrews 12:19 directly quotes the people's plea to not hear God's voice anymore, referencing the Sinai event.

Genesis 32:30 shows Jacob seeing God face to face and surviving, contrasting with the Israelites' fear of dying from God's direct address.

Acts 7:38 Historical context

Acts 7:38 recalls Moses receiving living words at Sinai, linking the event to the assembly in the wilderness and the angel's role.