EXODUS CHAPTER 20 - 20:4
EXODUS CHAPTER 20 20:4 There is a threefold giving of the law. First, orally, in Exodus 20:17. This was pure law, with no provision of priesthood and sacrifice for failure, and was accompanied by their "judgments" ( EXODUS 23:14__19 ) directions for keeping three annual feasts, and ( EXODUS 22:20__33 ) instructions for the conquest of Canaan. These words Moses communicated to the people ( EXODUS 24:3__8 ). Immediately, in the persons of their elders, they were admitted to the fellowship of God ( EXODUS 24:9__11 ). Second, Moses was then called up to receive the tables of stone ( EXODUS 24:12__18 ). The story then divides. Moses, in the mount, receives the gracious instructions concerning the tabernacle, priesthood, and sacrifice ( EXODUS 25:31 ). Meantime ( EXODUS 32 ), the people, led by Aaron, break the first commandment. Moses, returning, breaks the tables "written with the finger of God" ( EXODUS 31:18; 32:16__19 ). Third, the second tables we