Title: A Stiff-Necked People and a Sovereign Grace

Text: Exodus 32–34

Outline:

The Calf in the Camp Exodus 32

The Cry of the Soul Exodus 33

The Cure of the Heart Exodus 34

Personal Reflection & Small Group Questions

Please complete this study on your own, then bring it to your small group for discussion.

1. Looking back over your notes from this week’s sermon and text, what particularly caught your attention, challenged or confused you?

2. Besides God, what do people in your circles "bow down" to? Where are you most tempted to do the same?

3. Why do we prefer manageable idols (the Calf) over a Sovereign God? Compare what an idol promises vs. what it actually delivers.

4. What would you rather have, God’s blessings without his presence or God’s presence without his blessings? How does your stated preference reflect in your prayers and in the choices you make in life?

5. Where have you recently "seen" the glory of God? How does looking at the Cross help you see both His Justice and His Grace (Exod 34:6-7)?

6. Read Exodus 34:6-8 Like Moses, does the revelation of God’s character lead you to immediate worship or to more "to-do" lists?

7. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the "superior beauty" of Jesus so that your idols lose their power.