The Overlooked Foundation: Rediscovering the Mosaic Covenant in Modern Faith
Many pastors and teachers today rarely emphasize the importance of the covenant God made with Israel. Growing up in Pentecostal and evangelical circles, I can't recall a single sermon or lesson that focused on the Mosaic Covenant and its role as a foundational teaching for our faith. This isn't just a historical detail—it's a cornerstone of biblical understanding that deserves our attention.
The Mosaic Covenant was established with Israel in Exodus 20–24, beginning with God speaking the Ten Commandments to Moses and concluding with a solemn, blood-sealed ratification of the covenant. What I'm sharing here is a revelation that has deeply impacted me—one I feel called to pass on. But I encourage you, as you read, to seek discernment from God to fully grasp the weight and context of these scriptures.
The Spoken Word of God
In Exodus 20, God speaks directly to Moses, delivering not only the Ten Commandments but also ordinances covering civil life, personal conduct, property, sacred observances, and national identity. These words were spoken aloud by God before being inscribed in stone—a powerful reminder that God's law was first communicated in relationship, not just written in isolation.
The Covenant Confirmation
By Exodus 24, we witness the covenant's confirmation. Moses, along with Aaron, his sons, and seventy elders of Israel, approaches the Lord—but only Moses is permitted to draw near. After hearing God's words, Moses returns to the people, recounts everything, and they respond in unison: "All that the Lord has spoken we will do."
Moses then writes down all the words of the Lord, builds an altar with twelve pillars representing the tribes of Israel, and oversees sacrifices. In a profound act of covenant-making, he sprinkles half of the blood on the altar and half on the people, declaring, "Behold, the blood of the covenant."
This moment is more than ritual—it's a divine contract, sealed in blood, between Yahweh and His chosen people. Yet, how often do we reflect on this in our preaching, teaching, or personal study?
Reclaiming Foundational Truth
The Mosaic Covenant is not obsolete; it's a testament to God's holiness, justice, and desire for a people set apart. It sets the stage for the New Covenant—the blood of Jesus—which fulfills rather than erases what came before.
Let's reclaim this foundational truth. Let's teach it, preach it, and live in light of the covenants that reveal God's relentless commitment to His people.
Have you been taught about the Mosaic Covenant in your faith journey? How does understanding this covenant deepen your view of God's story? Share your thoughts below.
Note: This blog post is adapted from a personal study of Exodus 20–24. Always seek the Holy Spirit's guidance as you explore Scripture.