John Calvin Commentary Exodus 24:14

"And he said unto the elders, Tarry ye here for us, until we come again unto you: and, behold, Aaron and Hur are with you: whosoever hath a cause, let him come near unto them." — Exodus 24:14 (ASV)

Tarry ye here for us, until we come again. I do not interpret the words so precisely as to suppose that he commanded them to stand still in the same place. But since he was just about to be separated from interaction with people, I suppose that our earthly dwelling-place is indicated by the adverb,³²² since it immediately follows that if anything should occur, Aaron and Hur were to be his substitutes for ruling the people and settling quarrels.

For, since care and anxiety might beset their minds, as they were deprived of their only guide in counsel and minister of safety, he offers this consolation to relieve their despondency. Therefore, it follows that they were sent back to attend to their duties, which could not have been the case unless they were in communication with the people.

We do not know whether Moses was informed beforehand about the time (of his absence,³²³) although it is more probable that he was in doubt and suspense until he penetrated the secret counsel of God.

From the second to last verse, we learn that though the majesty of God was more clearly revealed to the elders, it was still conspicuous to all, from the least to the greatest, so that no excuse for ignorance would remain. For when the fire was seen burning for six continuous days, as if it would consume the mountain, how could they afterwards pretend that it was not fully understood from what Author the Law proceeded?

³²² “Le mot d’’ici;” the word ;” the word here. — . — Fr..

³²³ Added from Fr..