Exodus 23:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 23:20
20 Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.
Chapter Context
Exodus 23 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, love, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 23:20
20 Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.
Analysis
Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared.
God promises His Angel (מַלְאָךְ, malakh) to guide and guard—the Angel of the LORD, likely a Christophany (pre-incarnate Christ appearance). 'Keep thee in the way' (לִשְׁמָרְךָ בַּדָּרֶךְ, lishmarkha vadderekh) means protect on the journey. 'The place which I have prepared' is Canaan—God prepared it before they arrive. God goes before His people, preparing the way. Jesus says 'I go to prepare a place for you' (John 14:2)—same principle. The Angel's presence guarantees arrival—not without battles but with victory assured. God's presence is the pilgrim people's security.
Historical Context
The Angel of the LORD is a mysterious figure in the Old Testament, appearing to Hagar, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, and others. Often identified with God Himself yet distinct, suggesting pre-incarnate Christ.
Reflection
- How does the Angel going before Israel to prepare the way prefigure Christ's promise (John 14:2)?
- What does God 'preparing a place' before His people arrive teach about His providence?
Word Studies
- Angel: מַלְאָךְ (Mal'akh) H4397 - Angel, messenger
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 14:19, 32:34, 33:2, 33:14, Joshua 6:2, Psalms 91:11