Lesson 1 of 4
Rescued first
Read
Study objective: See that the commandments come after God’s rescue and as part of a covenant relationship.
Reading: Exodus 19:1–8Exodus 20:1–2
Exodus 19:1–8 WEB
1In the third month after the children of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that same day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. 2When they had departed from Rephidim, and had come to the wilderness of Sinai, they encamped in the wilderness; and there Israel encamped before the mountain. 3Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him out of the mountain, saying, “This is what you shall tell the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: 4‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to myself. 5Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be my own possession from among all peoples; for all the earth is mine; 6and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.” 7Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and set before them all these words which the LORD commanded him. 8All the people answered together, and said, “All that the LORD has spoken we will do.” Moses reported the words of the people to the LORD.
Exodus 20:1–2 WEB
1God spoke all these words, saying, 2“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
Background and context
Israel arrives at Sinai three months after leaving Egypt. God reminds them how he carried them “on eagles’ wings” and offers a covenant: they will be his treasured possession. Only then does he speak the commandments.
Observe
- God reminds the people what he has done before telling them what to do (19:4).
- The offer is relationship: “you shall be my own possession” (19:5).
- The people answer, “All that the LORD has spoken we will do” (19:8).
- The commandments open with “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out” (20:2).
Words, people and events to notice
- Covenant
- A binding commitment between God and his people. The commandments are the terms of the Sinai covenant. Exodus 19:5Exodus 34:28
Understand
- Why might it matter that rescue comes before commandments?
- What does God promise Israel in Exodus 19:5-6?
- How would you describe the relationship the commandments assume?
Connect
- Deuteronomy 5:1–6
Moses repeats the setting forty years later.
Reflect
- Do you think of God’s commands as a burden or as part of a relationship?
- What has God already done for you that comes before anything he asks?
Key takeaways
Editorial summary, not Scripture.
- The commandments are given to a people already rescued.
- They describe life in relationship with God.
Answers, notes and progress are saved on this device only. Nothing is sent to BibleKenya.