Bible Commentaries
Exodus 19

Verses 1-25

Here we begin the third great movement in the Book of Exodus. We have seen the people in bondage and have observed them being delivered from that bondage and guided by Jehovah. However, they were still a confused multitude rather than an organized nation. From this point to the end of the Book we have the account of the giving of the constitution and the great work of organization.

The first event was the calling of Moses and the announcement to him of the divine purpose. Jehovah first stated a simple condition to the people, "If ye will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant." The promise was most remarkable. The people were to be His "peculiar treasure . . . a kingdom of priests . . . a holy nation." This was a covenant of grace. It declared a great divine intention, but the unpreparedness of the people was shown in their easy declaration that they would keep all the words of Jehovah.

Immediately on this declaration the tone of Jehovah changed. Moses was sent back to them and the word that followed emphasized the majesty of their King. This they must ever bear in mind and maintain toward Him an attitude of such reverence as must be the outcome of an abiding sense of His power and His purity.

While in our day these ancient methods and manifestations may have ceased, the truths they were intended to indicate abide.