The scriptural reference often referred to by those who subscribe to the view that we cannot see the face of God and live is: God said to Moses, “You cannot see my face; for no one may see me and live.” Exodus 33:20
However, scripture also says we should seek the face of God: "Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually." 1 Chronicles 16:11 "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 Psalm 11:7 For the Lord is righteous; he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face. Psalm 17:15 As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake I shall be satisfied, beholding your likeness. • "When You said, “Seek My face,” My heart said to You, “Your face, LORD, I will seek.” Psalms 27:8 • "Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore." Psalms 105:4 "I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offense, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early." Hosea 5:15 Only the recording by Moses in Exodus conflicts with the other Old Testament references of “seeking God’s face.” If we look at the deeper meaning in the ancient Hebrew words of what Moses said and compare it with what Ezra, David and Hosea said, maybe Moses literally meant the “face of God” while Ezra, David and Hosea meant the glory/light reflecting the Presence of God. Sincerely, Joe Passanise
