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Sunday 8 September 2002 - "Who is on the Lord's side?"

(Summary of sermon by Erlo Stegen)

Ex 32:19 - 29

Moses' anger waxed hot because of Israel's sin. He had just come from God's presence, and God's anger was even greater against Israel. He wanted to wipe them out. Here we see godly anger in action. The Bible teaches us to be angry, but not to sin. If you can see others go off the track and sin, and God's righteous anger does not burn within you, you are dead spiritually.

Israel sinned by requesting the idol, but Moses starts with his own brother, Aaron, who was responsible for them, even as God started with Adam. Moses sides with God completely, and does not even spare his own brother.

Moses thoroughly interrogates his brother so that he might see the greatness of his sin. One detects in Aaron's answer that he treated the matter casually, and had no remorse for his sin. He blames the people for his sin. Do you know godly remorse for sin? Aaron should have taken council with God when the people came with their request. He was dull spiritually. Moses' heart must have broken seeing his brother falling like this. When you confess your sin, never do it as Aaron did here, for you will not obtain mercy this way. Only a curse will cling to you.

We see that the spirit of Korah was already at work in the camp, for Israel said to Aaron, "This Moses fellow ..." He was their leader, appointed by God, but they despised him. Your leaders might not be perfect, but respect them as appointed by God.

The people of Israel were unrestrained and free to do all manner of evil that proceeded from their heart, for Aaron did not restrain them. Even their enemies scoffed at them. We find exactly the same situation in the new South Africa. Girls fall pregnant like wild animals, and then a fuss is made to still keep them in church! The world ridicule and laugh at the church. Examine yourself whether there are things that you have done that is a shame to the church of God.

Moses called those who side with God to him, for he was on God's side. Some super spiritual people might reply that they are loyal only to God. Yes, we must be firstly loyal to God, but we cannot do it without the fellowship of the saints. When Paul and Barnabas parted, it was clear that Paul had God's blessing, for he parted with the blessing of the saints. When you do not have fellowship with those who are blessed, you will not be blessed.

Moses could say fearlessly, "I am on God's side and let those who side with God, come to me." Paul could say the same, "Follow me as I follow Christ." Follow those leaders who are loyal to God.

The Levites chose to side with God and his servant. They were blessed after that. You are not condemned or blessed by others, but by your own deeds. What is your choice today? Choose heaven or hell and let your deeds follow accordingly. You cannot choose heaven with sin in your life. Sin must be removed from your life, house, and even your cupboards.