As a consequence of their idolatry with the golden calf, the Israelites are told that the Lord will not accompany them on their journey to Canaan. As the people mourn upon hearing this bad news, Moses tells them to cast off their expensive clothing and ornaments. Here we bring in early Christian writer Clement of Alexandria, who has a lot to say about this topic. He weaves together passages from the Old Testament and New Testament to show the importance of Christians living simply, forsaking expensive outward adornment as we travel to the end of our own journey: heaven.
Teaching Notes
Leaving the Bright Clothes and Ornaments Behind (Exodus 33:1-6) - Lesson Outline (PDF)