The Book of the Covenant--Part I

As we continue our journey through the Book of Exodus, we encounter:
*An Introduction--Exodus 20:18-21.
*"The Book of the Covenant"--Exodus 20:22-23:19.
*A Conclusion--Exodus 23:20-24:18.

As we have indicated in a previous blog, Exodus 19-24 is a distinct unit, since Exodus 19 narrates an experience of Moses and the Israelites on Mount Horeb=Sinai, and Exodus 24 narrates an experience of Moses and the Israelites on Mount Horeb=Sinai. These chapter form an "inclusio" around this material. Exodus 24:7 probably calls Exodus 20:22-23:19 "the Book of the Covenant," although this is not absolutely certain.

In this blog, we will look at two matters briefly: the "Introduction," and the "position" of "the Book of the Covenant" in biblical thought and in the Book of Exodus.

1. Exodus 20:18-21 relates a brief conversation between Moses and the Israelites. The Israelites are very fearful of God, and thus beg Moses to converse with God but plead with God not to speak to them directly. Moses encourages the Israelites not to be afraid, for the Lord is testing them and put the fear of him upon them so they do not sin. The Israelites keep at a distance, but Moses draws near to God.

2. Apparently, the Bible presents God's laws in three major "stages."
a. Two fundamental principles: Love God with all your heart AND Love your neighbor as you love yourself. See Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Leviticus 19:18. Jesus emphasizes this in Mark 12:28-31; Matthew 22:34-40; Luke 10:25-28.
b. Ten broad instructions: Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
c. Specific, detailed, modified, clarified teachings, which go further into depth the great principles and instructions stated under a. and b. above.

In the following blogs, we will briefly work through "the Book of the Covenant" in Exodus 20:22-23:19.

Have you ever studied and considered and reflected on the statutes in Exodus 20-23? How do you respond? As we enter a little bit more into depth, come forth with your own understanding and ideas. Help me understand these passages better.

John Willis