I am sending
This phrase indicates God's active involvement in the lives of the Israelites. The Hebrew verb "שָׁלַח" (shalach) conveys the idea of dispatching or commissioning. It reflects God's sovereign authority and His personal commitment to the welfare of His people. By sending an angel, God demonstrates His ongoing presence and guidance, reassuring the Israelites of His unwavering support as they journey towards the Promised Land.

an angel
The term "angel" in Hebrew is "מַלְאָךְ" (mal'akh), meaning "messenger." In the biblical context, angels are divine beings sent by God to deliver messages, provide guidance, or execute His will. This particular angel is a manifestation of God's presence, serving as a protector and guide for the Israelites. The angel's role highlights the spiritual dimension of their journey, reminding them that they are under divine care and direction.

before you
The phrase "before you" signifies the angel's role as a leader and guide. The Hebrew preposition "לִפְנֵי" (lifnei) implies going ahead or in front of someone. This indicates that the angel is not only accompanying the Israelites but also leading the way, preparing the path for them. It reassures the Israelites that they are not alone in their journey; God has provided a divine escort to ensure their safe passage.

to protect you
Protection is a central theme in this verse, with the Hebrew root "שָׁמַר" (shamar) meaning to guard, watch over, or keep. This promise of protection underscores God's commitment to the safety and well-being of His people. The angel's presence serves as a divine shield against potential dangers, both physical and spiritual, that the Israelites might encounter on their journey.

along the way
The phrase "along the way" refers to the journey the Israelites are undertaking from Egypt to the Promised Land. The Hebrew word "דֶּרֶךְ" (derekh) means road, path, or journey. This journey is not just a physical trek but also a spiritual pilgrimage, symbolizing the path of faith and obedience to God's will. The assurance of divine guidance along the way emphasizes that every step of their journey is under God's watchful eye.

and to bring you
The phrase "and to bring you" highlights the angel's role in ensuring the successful completion of the Israelites' journey. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) means to come or bring. This conveys the idea of arrival and fulfillment of God's promise. It reassures the Israelites that their journey has a divine purpose and destination, and that God is committed to bringing them to the place He has prepared.

to the place I have prepared
This final phrase speaks of God's providence and preparation. The Hebrew word "מָקוֹם" (makom) means place, and "כּוּן" (kun) means to establish or prepare. This indicates that God has already designated and prepared a specific place for His people, the Promised Land. It is a place of rest, blessing, and fulfillment of God's covenant promises. This assurance of a prepared place reflects God's foreknowledge and His desire to provide for His people, encouraging them to trust in His plan and timing.

(20-33) The Book of the Covenant terminates, very appropriately, with a series of promises. God is "the rewarder of them that diligently seek him." He chooses to "reward men after their works," and to set before them "the recompense of the reward." He "knows whereof we are made," and by what motives we are influenced. Self-interest, the desire of our own good, is one of the strongest of them. If Israel will keep His covenant, they will enjoy the following blessings :--(1) The guidance and protection of His angel till Canaan is reached; (2) God's help against their adversaries, who will, little by little, be driven out; (3) the ultimate possession of the entire country between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea on the one hand, the Desert and the Euphrates on the other; (4) a blessing upon their flocks and herds, which shall neither be barren nor cast their young; and (5) a blessing upon themselves, whereby they will escape sickness and enjoy a long term of life. All these advantages, however, are conditional upon obedience, and may be forfeited.

(20) I send an Angel before thee.--Kalisch considers Moses to have been the "angel" or "messenger;" others understand one of the created angelic host. But most commentators see in the promise the first mention of the "Angel of the Covenant," who is reasonably identified with the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, the Eternal Son and Word of God. When the promise is retracted on account of the sin of the golden calf, it is in the words, "I will not go up with thee" (Exodus 33:3).

1. That he will send an angel before them to be their guide, director, and helper (vers. 20 - 23).

2. That he will be the enemy of their enemies (ver. 22), striking terror into them miraculously (ver. 27), and subjecting them to other scourges also (ver. 28).

3. That he will drive out their enemies "by little and little" (ver. 30), not ceasing until he has destroyed them (ver. 23). . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...