Exodus 20:1-17

Ancient lens

What's the historical context?

Covenant first

These words spoken by God to the people of Israel were spelled out within the covenant-making process. God has promised to be with the people, and these stipulations for Israel are intended to outline how they can flourish as the covenant people. The commands are not precursors to the covenant. The covenant has come first.

Context of deliverance

The words of this passage from Exodus 20 are well-known, often appearing on plaques and posters not only in churches, but schools, and sometimes even courts of law.

It is of great importance that we remember the context in which these words were given: they were…