Exodus 20b Commentary
The Old Testament is so-called because of the covenant at Mount Sinai. This is where we are. But these theological structures don’t help us fully appreciate the holy script.
Murder was still murder long before the Ten Commandments. Cain killed Abel and the LORD God punished him for it. Noah’s flood came because of wickedness. The LORD God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of wickedness. Joseph knew sleeping with Potiphar’s wife was a sin long before Moses was born!
“I am the Almighty God. Obey me and always do what is right,” the LORD God told Abraham. Genesis 17 verse 1.
We could look at the Ten Commandments as a description of what it means to be righteous.
The first section looks to God. It’s all about God’s honor and His name. Law 4 is unique in scope—both national and international. The LORD God has the nations in mind. For now, Israel is simply a model.
The second section addresses interpersonal relationships. Don’t cause pain and suffering amongst yourselves, this seems to be the point. The second section forms the “second most important commandment”: Love your neighbor as yourself.
The commandments reflect the nature of the Creator God. He is holy – let the saint remember!
The next several chapters expand on God’s Laws. Moses is still atop Mount Sinai, receiving instructions. Aaron is with the people at the foot of the mountain. Moses will spend 40 days with the LORD atop Mount Sinai.
More resources visit http://www.lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 