Session 4: Israel Covenant (Mosaic)
Exodus 19-20
Recap of Covenants
- Adam: God promises that one day a descendant will crush the serpent’s head.
- Noah: God promises never again to destroy the earth with a flood.
- Abraham: God promises blessing to all nations, countless descendants, and a land — received through faith, not works.
Now we arrive at Israel, freshly rescued from slavery in Egypt.
Grace Precedes Law
Why does God remind the Israelites of their exodus from Egypt before giving the law? How does that parallel with the gospel?
God’s gracious acts on Israel’s behalf consistently precede his calls for them to keep his covenant law. This pattern of grace preceding law reflects the gospel — we are saved by faith in Christ solely by God’s unmerited grace, only after which, as a response, are we then called to obedience and good works.
The law was not given as a way for the Israelites to merit love from God. It was already an expression of God’s redemptive hand in human history. He first saved them from Egypt, carrying them on eagle’s wings.
The Purpose of the Law
If the law doesn’t save us, why did God give it?
1. The Law is our mirror (Romans 3:20)
It reveals our sin. Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress illustration: the parlor full of dust — when the man sweeps (the Law), the dust flies and chokes Christian. But when the damsel sprinkles water (the Gospel), the room is cleansed. The Law cannot cleanse the heart; it reveals and increases the consciousness of sin. But the Gospel brings true cleansing.
2. The Law is our guardian/tutor (Galatians 3:24)
The Law was like our teacher or tutor (paidagōgos in Greek). It was supposed to show us how much we need God. It anticipates the fulfillment of Christ on the cross.
Are Christians Still Under the Law?
Paul says we’re not under the ceremonial or civil parts of the Mosaic law, but the moral law (like the Ten Commandments) still reflects God’s heart and character.
There is a false teaching called antinomianism — the belief that Christians are freed from the moral law because of divine grace. It undermines our responsibility to live in obedience by misunderstanding grace.
Application
Holiness is the primary mark of God’s covenant people. Holiness set Israel apart from the nations. Holiness sets the Church apart from the world.
In our 20s — with so many pressures, choices, and distractions — we need that same rhythm: remember grace, pursue holiness, and rest in Christ.
Our love for God weakens when we lose sight of what we’ve been forgiven from. We love much only when we know we have been forgiven much. Jesus says those who have been forgiven little love little.
My exhortation: if there was an ongoing sin that came to mind, flee to Christ. There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Plead for his grace and power to live a holy life unto Him.
Discussion Questions
- Can you think of a time in your life when you clearly felt God’s grace or rescue before you had “cleaned up your act”?
- The Law exposes sin but can’t save us — only Christ can. What are some modern examples of people trying to “clean the dust” without the Gospel?
- How have you seen God use His Word to show you your sin — and then point you to His grace?
- When has remembering God’s grace reignited your love for Him?
- When you become aware of a sin or failure, what’s your default reaction: hide from God, try harder in your own strength, or just sit in guilt? Why do you think that’s your go-to response?