Exodus 18:24Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This point is readily supported by the most sacred Paul, who, acknowledging the preeminence of Christ's mind, willingly relinquishes the privileges of the law in order to “gain Christ” (Phil. 3:8). The prophet Jeremiah addressed those who cling solely to Moses’ teachings and reject the perfection offered through Christ: “How do you say, ‘We are wise, and we have the law of the Lord’? The wise men are ashamed, confounded, and entangled in the net: behold, they have rejected the word of the Lord; wherein is their wisdom?” (Jer. 8:8-9). For us, who accept the life-giving Word and embrace the proclamation of Christ, He has become “wisdom from God” (1 Cor. 1:30). Thus, through wisdom, we have outstripped those governed by the law, as we learn from the narratives of the law and partake of spiritual sustenance in the presence of God, enabling us to articulate and reflect more profound thoughts. Jethro’s counsel and Moses’ obedience exemplify this dynamic; Jethro symbolizes the Gentiles while Moses reflects those who adhere to the law. P. Indeed, you have rightly stated this. C. Therefore, the perfection brought about through Christ and the strength of His commandments grant us wisdom and allow us to triumph over death, defeating the concealed adversary, which is Satan. The Psalmist aptly declared, “With God we shall have strength, He shall overthrow our enemies” (Psalms 59:14); to us, enlightened in faith, he proclaimed, “for Thou art the ornament of their strength” (Psalms 88:18), and “at Thy name they shall rejoice all the day long” (Psalms 88:17). We, who are redeemed in Christ, boast of having Him “as a weapon of favor” (Psalms 5:13), as is affirmed in the Scriptures.

It is indeed prideful to believe one is entirely self-sufficient and not in need of others' guidance, considering oneself the sole authority in making wise decisions. Furthermore, we often hesitate to yield to those who offer essential teachings, feeling embarrassed to recognize their greater wisdom in navigating life’s challenges. Additionally, one who postpones seeking counsel while excessively relying on personal judgment may struggle for an extended time to uncover the necessary truths, often needing to exert significant effort and focus.

The formation of these courts is succinctly documented in Exodus 18:24-26 and further elaborated in Deuteronomy 1:9, 12-16. These passages clarify that the division of subordinate courts was carried out in this manner. Moses did not disregard Jethro's wise counsel, a move that others in his position might have made to protect their authority; instead, he recognized its value and acted upon it swiftly. Before implementing his father-in-law's suggestions, Moses sought God's approval to ensure that this significant undertaking aligned with divine authority and omnipotence. Following this, as detailed in Deuteronomy, Moses proposed his plan to the people, who unanimously consented, enabling him to select capable individuals from all tribes. This would ensure that the judges appointed by the people received communal endorsement, allowing for an organized structure and necessary guidelines.

This framework was indeed established through God's authority and will, as reflected in Exodus 24:1-10. God, who has consistently favored His beloved people, did not reject Moses' selection of seventy elders. Instead, He commanded these men to ascend Mount Sinai, where divine revelation would empower them, strengthening their capacity to fulfill their roles and affirming the sacred covenant God made with the entire nation.

According to the Book of Numbers, God confirmed this new order by imparting His Spirit upon these chosen individuals (Num. 11:16-20). The ongoing discontent and rebellion among the Israelites presented Moses with new challenges in his leadership. However, following Jethro's advice, he focused only on the most critical issues pertinent to the national service of worship and the well-being of the Jewish community, while shouldering the responsibilities of governance.

Burdened by such grievances and sensing his limitations, Moses cried out to the Lord regarding the need for assistance in managing the people, asking not for new leaders but for the existing elders, now renewed with the Holy Spirit's gifts. Thus, it must be understood that the establishment of these new leaders and judges in Israel was not entirely novel but a reaffirmation of those already appointed, with the added empowerment of the Holy Spirit for their governance.

Even though these leaders remained subordinate to Moses in significant matters, they, too, were endowed with the Spirit of Prophecy and equipping gifts, enabling them to act decisively in administering justice as Moses did. With competent assistants appointed to lesser responsibilities, Moses experienced substantial alleviation in his duties.

Historical records indicate that the lower courts and subordinate governance instituted by Moses persisted for several centuries. While the prophetic gifts were not permanent with the elders, the legacy of the seventy elders continued in Canaan for over a millennium and a half. This persistence is particularly evident as Joshua called these elders to counsel during his final assemblies, as recorded in his book (Hab. 23:2, Hab. 24:1), after entering the Promised Land. Similarly, the role of these elders in guiding the judges of Israel is clearly demonstrated in their governance (Judg. 21:16), where former elders advised the leaders regarding the marriages of the Benjamites. They convened in the central city of Palestine, deliberating important matters with the rulers of the people.