Exodus 20:1
And God spake all these words, saying,
Exodus 20:1
This verse introduces the Ten Words (Commandments) with a solemn verb—“And God spake all these words, saying”—highlighting that the content that follows is divine speech. In the ancient world, treaties and covenants began with a declaration of stipulations from the rightful ruler. Here, Yahweh positions Himself as the sovereign Liberator who will set the terms for His people’s life. The immediate context is the deliverance from Egypt and the formation of a new social order under divine authority. The immediacy of “all these words” signals comprehensive instruction—every aspect of life is touched by the covenantal relationship. The verse also presumes the people’s reception of God’s voice through Moses and foreshadows the moral and ethical boundaries that will govern Israel’s identity as a nation.
This line confirms that God’s law originates in divine speech, not human invention. It grounds ethics in God’s character—who He is and what He has done (redemption). The call to remember God’s saving acts before laying down commandments underscores the motive for obedience: love born out of gratitude and awe, not mere legalism. The passage also presents a dual emphasis: God’s holiness and His mercy. The commandments reveal God’s just standards while reminding Israel of grace already shown in deliverance.
- Ground ethics in God’s character: before applying rules, ask how they reflect God’s nature and salvation.
- Remember history with God: recall His faithfulness as the basis for present obedience.
- Begin with relationship: obedience is a response to relationship, not a transactional duty.
- Teach and practice regularly: families and communities can use this as a curriculum for daily life.
Cross-References: Deuteronomy 5:1-21; Hebrews 12:18-24; Psalm 119:1-8; Romans 3:20; James 1:22