"Face to face" is used in four instances in the Bible to describe God's relationship with man. In two of them (Jacob and Gideon), it turns out that they have not seen the Lord Himself but the Angel of the Lord. The third instance describes Moses. Here the Lord says:
"I speak with him face to face,
Even plainly, and not in dark sayings;
And he sees the form of the LORD.
Why then were you not afraid
To speak against My servant Moses?” (Num. 12:8 - similar sentiments/phrasing elsewhere) Yet even though Moses and God speak "face to face" Moses "sees the form of the LORD" - not his face. Why is this important?
Ex. 33:20 - "You cannot see my face; for no man shall see Me, and live."
Ever throughout the Old Testament, there is a longing for God's face (especially in Psalms), but whenever He is somewhat revealed, fear is the result.
Yet
"Now we see but a poor reflection, as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now we know in part; then we shall know fully, even as we are fully known." 1 Cor. 13:12
Ever throughout the New Testament we are told to come to God. We have "boldness and access [to God] with confidence through faith in [Christ]." We are instructed to "come boldly before the throne of grace that we may find mercy and grace to help in time of need."
But the crowning glory of all, in Heaven:
Rev 22:3-4 ~ The throne of God and the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. And they shall see His face
You cannot see my face; for no man shall see Me, and live.
But He has made a Way:
The throne of God and the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. And they shall see His face.
1 comment:
Oh, Lord, that we might see your face! The glory of your majesty is too wonderful for us to bear, yet you made a way that we might see you and know you! You bridged the gap and have brought us close, and for that we praise you. Immanuel! Yet Lord, we also eagerly await your return, the day in which we will see you face to face, clearly, with no barrier of sin between. Oh Lord, draw us every closer and conform us to the likeness of your Son; let us never cease to seek your face!
Is it not amazing, though? That the absolute perfection--God--whom nothing sinful can even see, lest it be destroyed...that same God, full of justice and perfection loved us--while we were still sinners--and made a way that we might see Him--and not be destroyed.
Praise Him!
--Josiah C.
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