Exodus 32: Idolatry's Fearful Toll

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of Exodus.

Probably nothing shocks us as much as defection. Selling out to the enemy is hard to understand. Loyalty rightly stands near the top of qualities we admire. When traitors are exposed, we smugly assume that we would never do such a thing. But who knows where we are the most vulnerable? On the heels of glorious triumph Israel plunged into idolatry with the flimsiest of excuses. God's nation flunked the loyalty test, with disastrous consequences.

Warming Up to God

Sit quietly as you recall recent events in your life. Confess your sins to Jesus and acknowledge that every one of them is forgiven and blotted from the memory of the Father.

Read Exodus 32

Discovering the Word

• Who instigated the idolatry and why (v. 1)?
• What impresses you about the dialogue between God and Moses (vv. 9-14)?
• How did Moss react when he saw the Israelites' idolatrous worship (vv. 19-24)?
• How was God's judgment against idolatry carried out (vv. 27-28, 35)?
• What did it cost the Levites to take a public stand for God?
• Moses offered his life to atone for Israel's sin (vv. 30-32). What did God promise instead (vv. 33-34)?

Applying the Word

• In what ways can we emulate Moses in our relation to God and in our care for sinning people?
• What spiritual disciplines could help you maintain faithfulness to God?

Responding in Prayer

Praise God for this example of grace—even in Exodus, long before Christ ever came to earth.