Exodus 24:12

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Come up to Me on the mountain and stay here, so that I may give you the tablets of stone, with the law and commandments I have written for their instruction."

Study Bible

The LORD said to Moses
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and Moses, highlighting Moses' unique role as a mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which conveys not just speaking but also commanding or declaring. This underscores the authority and divine initiative in the communication. Historically, Moses is seen as a prophet and leader chosen by God, and this direct dialogue signifies the importance of the message being conveyed.

Come up to Me on the mountain
The invitation to "come up" signifies a call to ascend not just physically but spiritually. The mountain, likely Mount Sinai, is a place of divine revelation and encounter. In biblical symbolism, mountains often represent places where heaven and earth meet, where God reveals Himself to humanity. The Hebrew word for "come up" is "עָלָה" (alah), which can also mean to rise or ascend, indicating a movement towards God, both in proximity and in spiritual elevation.

and stay there
This phrase implies a period of waiting and dwelling in God's presence. The Hebrew root "הָיָה" (hayah) for "stay" suggests being or existing, indicating that Moses is to remain in a state of readiness and receptivity. This period of staying is crucial for receiving divine instruction, emphasizing the importance of patience and attentiveness in spiritual matters.

so that I may give you
Here, the purpose of Moses' ascent is revealed: to receive something from God. The phrase indicates a divine gift, underscoring the grace and initiative of God in providing guidance and law. The act of giving is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people, highlighting God's desire to equip and instruct His chosen leader.

the tablets of stone
The "tablets of stone" are significant as they represent the permanence and durability of God's law. Stone, in the ancient Near Eastern context, was often used for inscriptions meant to last, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's commandments. Archaeologically, this aligns with practices of inscribing important decrees on stone to ensure their preservation.

with the law and commandments
This phrase refers to the content of the tablets, which includes both the "law" (Torah) and "commandments" (mitzvot). The Hebrew word "תּוֹרָה" (Torah) means instruction or teaching, while "מִצְוָה" (mitzvah) refers to specific commands. Together, they encompass the comprehensive guidance God provides for His people, reflecting His will and covenantal relationship with Israel.

I have written
The act of writing by God Himself emphasizes the divine origin and authority of the law. The Hebrew root "כָּתַב" (katav) for "written" indicates a formal and deliberate act, underscoring the significance and intentionality behind the commandments. This divine authorship assures the Israelites of the reliability and sacredness of the law.

for their instruction
The purpose of the law and commandments is for the instruction of the Israelites. The Hebrew word "יָרָה" (yarah) for "instruction" can also mean to teach or direct, highlighting the role of the law as a guide for living in accordance with God's will. This underscores the practical and moral dimensions of the law, intended to shape the community's life and relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who calls Moses to receive His law.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to mediate His covenant and receive His commandments.

3. Mount Sinai
The holy mountain where God reveals His law to Moses, symbolizing divine authority and presence.

4. Tablets of Stone
The physical manifestation of God's law, representing His covenant with Israel.

5. The Law and Commandments
The divine instructions given to guide the moral and spiritual life of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Divine Invitation
God invites us into His presence to receive His guidance and instruction, just as He called Moses to the mountain.

The Importance of God's Law
The law given to Moses is foundational for understanding God's holiness and our need for a Savior.

Obedience and Relationship
Our relationship with God is deepened through obedience to His commandments, which are given for our instruction and well-being.

The Fulfillment in Christ
Jesus fulfills the law, and through Him, we receive the grace to live according to God's will.

Internalization of God's Word
As believers, we are called to internalize God's commandments, allowing the Holy Spirit to write them on our hearts.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does God's invitation to Moses to "come up to Me on the mountain" teach us about approaching God in our own lives?

2. How do the tablets of stone symbolize the permanence and authority of God's law, and how does this apply to our understanding of Scripture today?

3. In what ways does Jesus' teaching in the New Testament fulfill and expand upon the law given to Moses?

4. How can we ensure that God's commandments are written on our hearts, as described in Hebrews 8:10?

5. Reflect on a time when obedience to God's instructions led to spiritual growth or transformation in your life. How can this experience encourage others in their faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:18
This verse describes God giving Moses the tablets of stone, emphasizing their divine origin.

Deuteronomy 9:9-11
Moses recounts receiving the tablets, highlighting the significance of the law in Israel's covenant relationship with God.

Matthew 5:17-18
Jesus speaks about fulfilling the law, connecting the Old Testament law to His teachings.

Hebrews 8:10
This verse discusses the new covenant, where God's laws are written on believers' hearts, reflecting the internalization of God's commandments.

2 Corinthians 3:3
Paul contrasts the tablets of stone with the Spirit's work in believers, emphasizing the transformation brought by the Holy Spirit.