Exodus 24:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 24:7
7 And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.
Chapter Context
Exodus 24 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, worship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 24:7
7 And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.
Analysis
And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath spoken will we do, and be obedient.
'Book of the covenant' (סֵפֶר הַבְּרִית, sefer haberit)—the written law Moses penned (v. 4), probably Exodus 20:22-23:33. Reading in their hearing makes them legally accountable—they heard, understood, agreed. Their response adds 'be obedient' (וְנִשְׁמָע, venishma, 'and we will hear/obey') to previous 'we will do' (v. 3). Still backwards—'do and hear' rather than 'hear and do.' Faith hears God's voice then responds obediently; works try doing before hearing. Israel's performance-focus instead of faith-focus dooms the covenant. Christ hears perfectly ('not my will but yours,' Luke 22:42) and obeys fully (Philippians 2:8).
Historical Context
The 'Book of the Covenant' is the first recorded section of Scripture. Reading the law aloud in covenant ceremonies is repeated throughout Israel's history (Deuteronomy 31:11, Joshua 8:34, 2 Kings 23:2, Nehemiah 8:3).
Reflection
- What is the significance of reading the covenant terms before ratification—why written and oral proclamation?
- Why is 'we will do and hear' backwards—how does this reveal Israel's works-orientation?
Word Studies
- Covenant: בְּרִית (Berit) H1285 - Covenant, treaty
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Thessalonians 5:27
- Parallel theme: Acts 13:15, Colossians 4:16