The Lord spake unto Moses face to face, &c.— i.e. Not by visions, dreams, or any obscure and awful resemblances; but by a distinct voice, in a conspicuous, familiar, friendly, and condescending manner. See Deuteronomy 34:10 and compare Exodus 33:20 of this chapter. His servant Joshua—a young man, might be rendered, his servant Joshua—who ministered unto him: see note on ch. Exodus 24:5. Joshua must now have been near fifty years old.
REFLECTIONS.—While matters stand thus in suspense, God separates himself from them. The tabernacle is removed without the camp, in token that he left them: yet not so removed, but that they who were disposed might follow it. Thither the people whose hearts sought after God resorted; and thither Moses, as their advocate, went to intercede for them. The people followed him with their eyes; and God's appearance in the cloud at the door of the tabernacle bespoke his returning favour to them; on which they all worshipped him at the door of their tents, to beg that mercy which they had so justly forfeited. God there speaks friendly to Moses, and he returns to encourage the people, while Joshua remains before the Lord. Learn, (1.) That the removal of God's ordinances is a great judgment upon any people. 2. While there is a praying remnant left, there is hope. 3. The eye of faith, which follows Jesus into the heavenly tabernacle, keeps the soul from sinking under its fears.