MPV Commentary

Delivery of the Law and Covenant.

Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord, rehearsing the laws and ten commandments, along with promises of blessings for obedience. This drew a unanimous declaration from the people, consenting to the national covenant. The next day, preparations were made to ratify the covenant by building an altar and twelve pillars; the altar represented God, while the pillars symbolized the tribes of Israel, the two parties in this solemn compact. Moses acted as mediator.

Young men, likely priests (Ex 19:22), probably the oldest sons of particular families, assisted under Moses' direction. Oxen were offered in sacrifice (Heb 9:18-20).

Moses took half of the blood and sprinkled it on each party involved, signifying solemn ratification. This followed a public reading of the law and the people's renewed acceptance of its terms. The act was accompanied by a proclamation of its significance, setting their seal to the covenant (compare 1Co 11:25). This scene taught the Israelites that the covenant was made with them only through the sprinkling of blood, emphasizing the atoning sacrifice for divine acceptance and the promise of blessings secured through grace.

Moses then went up with Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy elders to a higher level. They were chosen representatives, conspicuous for their official rank, character, and probity in their respective tribes.

The elders saw the God of Israel, who displayed a symbol or emblem of His glory at a distance. Some believe this scene may have revealed the faint form of Christ's humanity (Eze 1:26; compare Ga 3:24). The throne was described as sapphire, one of the most valuable gems.

The nobles of Israel were not inspired with terror after the sprinkling of blood, and they ate and drank on the peace offering, indicating God's dwelling with men. This feast had a prophetic bearing, foreshadowing God's presence among people.

Moses was instructed to give the people tables of stone inscribed by God Himself, authenticating and honoring the ten commandments above other parts of the law. These were given in a permanent form for greater durability.

Moses went up into the mount of God to receive the divine transcript, while Joshua accompanied him higher up. Moses told the elders to wait below, as he alone was privileged to ascend the highest peak. The people stood below, while the elders and Moses represented different levels of access to God's presence.

Moses entered the midst of the cloud, a visible token of God's presence, animated by divine grace to enter with holy boldness. He spent forty days and forty nights on the mountain, miraculously supported during that time.