Exodus 23:20—24:18: Ratifying the Covenant
PEACE TREATIES AND home mortgages are ratified by signatures of the parties involved. Marriages are ratified by vows spoken before witnesses. The point is the same: promises are made and solemnly sealed. God called forth such an agreement at the birth of Israel. A written document was agreed to. Public vows were made. The blood of sacrificial animals sealed the covenant—a landmark in Israel's history. A marriage, as it were, was begun between God and his people. As this study reveals, our commitments to God carry awesome responsibilities.
Warming Up to God
List three promises in Scripture given to you by the Father. Let these promises encourage your heart and give you peace as you seek the face of God today.
Read Exodus 23:20—24:18. »
Discovering the Word
- What perils and temptations lie ahead for the Israelites?
- In light of these, what commands and promises does God give?
- After Israel's response (24:3) and Moses' steps to ensure that a public record of the laws would be kept (24:4), why was sacrifice appropriate (24:5)?
- How would you summarize the basic points of this agreement (covenant) between God and his people?
- What is the purpose of this mountaintop meeting with God (24:9-18)?
Applying the Word
- What perils or temptations are you facing?
- How does God help you to meet them?
- God showed his glory to Israel (24:15-18). In what ways have you seen God display his glory in your life?
Responding in Prayer
Praise God for his incredible covenant—the solid assurance that God will always be with his children and you, his child.
For Further Study
Themes in Old Testament Theology by William A. Dyrness