Exodus 24:3

When Moses came and told the people all the words and ordinances of the LORD, they all responded with one voice: "All the words that the LORD has spoken, we will do."

Study Bible

When Moses came
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, as Moses acts as the intermediary between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "came" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which often signifies entering or arriving with purpose. Moses' arrival is not just physical but also spiritual, as he brings divine revelation to the people. Historically, Moses' role as a leader and prophet is central to the Israelite identity, and his actions here underscore his obedience and dedication to God's mission.

and told the people
The act of telling or declaring is rooted in the Hebrew word "דָּבַר" (dabar), which implies not just speaking but conveying a message with authority. Moses is not merely relaying information; he is delivering God's commandments, which carry divine authority. This highlights the importance of communication in the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the need for clarity and faithfulness in transmitting God's word.

all the words of the LORD
The phrase "words of the LORD" underscores the divine origin of the message. The Hebrew term for "words" is "דְּבָרִים" (devarim), which can also mean matters or things, indicating the comprehensive nature of God's communication. This reflects the belief that God's words are not just commands but encompass His will and purpose for His people. The use of "all" emphasizes the completeness and sufficiency of God's revelation.

and all the ordinances
Ordinances, from the Hebrew "מִשְׁפָּטִים" (mishpatim), refer to judgments or decrees. These are specific laws that govern the community's life, reflecting God's justice and righteousness. The inclusion of both words and ordinances indicates that God's covenant involves both moral and legal dimensions, guiding the Israelites in their relationship with Him and with each other.

they all responded with one voice
The unity of the people is highlighted here, as they respond collectively. The phrase "with one voice" suggests unanimity and shared commitment. This collective response is significant in the context of covenant-making, as it demonstrates the people's willingness to enter into a binding agreement with God. It reflects the communal nature of the covenant, where individual and collective responsibilities are intertwined.

'All the words that the LORD has spoken, we will do.'
This declaration of obedience is a pivotal moment of commitment. The phrase "we will do" (נַעֲשֶׂה, na'aseh) is a pledge of action and faithfulness. It signifies the people's acceptance of God's authority and their readiness to live according to His commandments. This echoes the covenantal theme of obedience as a response to divine grace, where the people's actions are a reflection of their relationship with God. The repetition of "all the words" emphasizes their comprehensive commitment to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites. He communicates God's laws and ordinances to the people.

2. The Israelites
The collective group of God's chosen people who respond to Moses' message with a commitment to obey God's words.

3. Mount Sinai
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, the events occur in the context of the Sinai Covenant, where God gives the Law to Moses.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-making God who delivers His commandments and ordinances to His people through Moses.

5. The Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, where they pledge obedience to God's laws as delivered by Moses.

Teaching Points

Commitment to Obedience
The Israelites' response, "All the words that the LORD has spoken, we will do," highlights the importance of a wholehearted commitment to God's commands. As believers, we are called to respond to God's Word with a similar resolve.

The Role of Mediators
Moses serves as a mediator between God and the people, prefiguring Christ as the ultimate mediator of the New Covenant. Understanding this role helps us appreciate the significance of Christ's intercession for us.

The Importance of Community Affirmation
The Israelites respond "with one voice," emphasizing the power of communal commitment to God's Word. In our faith communities, unity in purpose and obedience strengthens our collective witness.

The Seriousness of Covenant
The Israelites' pledge to obey God's commands is a solemn commitment. As Christians, we should take our covenant relationship with God seriously, understanding the responsibilities it entails.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Israelites' response in Exodus 24:3 challenge us in our personal commitment to obey God's Word today?

2. In what ways does Moses' role as a mediator in this passage point to the work of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. How can we, as a faith community, ensure that we are responding "with one voice" to God's commands in our church and community life?

4. Reflect on a time when you made a commitment to God. How does the seriousness of the covenant in Exodus 24:3 inform your understanding of that commitment?

5. How do the Israelites' repeated affirmations of obedience throughout the Old Testament (e.g., Deuteronomy 5:27, Joshua 24:24) inspire us to remain faithful in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:8
This earlier passage shows the Israelites' initial commitment to obey God's commands, similar to their response in Exodus 24:3.

Deuteronomy 5:27
The Israelites express a similar sentiment of obedience when they hear the Ten Commandments, reinforcing their commitment to God's covenant.

Joshua 24:24
The Israelites again affirm their commitment to serve and obey the LORD, echoing their response in Exodus 24:3.

Hebrews 9:19-20
This New Testament passage references the covenant made at Sinai, highlighting the importance of the blood of the covenant, which Moses later sprinkles on the people.