EXODUS 21
In chapter 21 we have the Hebrew servant, the whole realm of divine operations resounding with that memorable utterance, “I love my master, my wife, and my children”. He says it “distinctly”. The early chapters of the Acts are suggested in verses 7 to 11, full provision being made in the assembly for Israel’s food, clothing and her conjugal rights. So that if she has been superseded for the moment in the affections of Christ in view of the assembly, all that God has pledged Himself to in regard of her is assured.
Then the allusion to Christ’s death in verse 13 is touching, Israel being absolved as they were in the beginning of the Acts from wanton murder in regard of Christ. His having been “given up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God” (Acts 2:23) would link up with the thought of God having delivered the slain one into his hand. Hence the assembly is the place of refuge for repentant Israel, “to which he shall flee”. But the slaying of Stephen was wanton and Israel was thus taken away from God’s altar, “that he may die”.
In the incident of the goring ox, verses 28 and 29, the responsibility of assemblies was emphasised as seen in the owner, the power invested of the Lord there to restrain unbroken elements must be exercised. All the gathering is held responsible for damage done by such an one (end of verse 29).
Then in verse 35 in an issue which arises, there is something of value in connection with the ox that is slain (end of verse 36) — “the dead shall be his”. When death is accepted by any one in any issue arising, there is immediate value.