Deuteronomy 5:28

And the LORD heard the words you spoke to me, and He said to me, "I have heard the words that these people have spoken to you. They have done well in all that they have spoken.

Study Bible

And the LORD heard the words you spoke to me
This phrase emphasizes God's omniscience and His active involvement in the lives of His people. In the context of Deuteronomy, Moses is recounting the events at Mount Sinai (Horeb), where the Israelites received the Ten Commandments. The LORD's ability to hear reflects His intimate relationship with Israel, as seen throughout the Pentateuch. This divine attentiveness is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 34:15, which states that the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry.

and He said to me
This indicates direct communication between God and Moses, underscoring Moses' role as a prophet and mediator. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such direct communication from a deity was rare and signified a special relationship. Moses' unique position is further highlighted in Numbers 12:6-8, where God speaks of Moses as one with whom He speaks face to face, unlike other prophets.

I have heard the words that these people have spoken to you
Here, God acknowledges the words of the Israelites, showing that He is not only aware of their actions but also their intentions and desires. This reflects the covenant relationship established at Sinai, where the people agreed to obey God's commandments. The phrase also highlights the communal aspect of Israel's relationship with God, as the entire nation is addressed collectively.

They have done well in all that they have spoken
This commendation from God suggests that the Israelites' response was appropriate and aligned with His will. Historically, this refers to the moment when the people expressed their fear of God's direct presence and requested that Moses speak to God on their behalf (Exodus 20:18-19). Their recognition of God's holiness and their own unworthiness is seen as a positive step towards understanding the nature of their covenant relationship. This acknowledgment of their proper response is a precursor to the blessings and curses outlined later in Deuteronomy, which hinge on Israel's obedience to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who listens to His people and responds to their needs and concerns.

2. Moses
The leader and prophet of Israel, who acts as an intermediary between God and the Israelites.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving the Law and commandments as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

4. Mount Sinai (Horeb)
The place where God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites.

5. The Giving of the Law
The event where God communicates His commandments to the Israelites through Moses.

Teaching Points

God Listens to His People
God is attentive to the words and concerns of His people. This encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing He hears them.

The Role of Mediators
Moses serves as a mediator between God and Israel, pointing to the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us.

Obedience and Approval
The Israelites' response to God's commandments is commended. Believers are called to respond to God's Word with obedience and reverence.

The Importance of Communication
Open communication with God is vital. Just as God heard the Israelites, He desires to hear from us through prayer and worship.

The Continuity of God's Covenant
The giving of the Law is part of God's ongoing covenant relationship with His people, which finds its fulfillment in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fact that God listens to His people impact your personal prayer life?

2. In what ways does Moses' role as a mediator foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we ensure that our response to God's Word is one of obedience and reverence, similar to the Israelites' commendable response?

4. What are some practical ways to improve our communication with God in our daily lives?

5. How does understanding the continuity of God's covenant from the Old Testament to the New Testament deepen your faith and understanding of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19-20
These chapters provide the background of the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Deuteronomy 18:15-19
This passage speaks of a prophet like Moses whom God will raise up, emphasizing the role of mediators in God's communication with His people.

Hebrews 12:18-24
This New Testament passage contrasts the giving of the Law at Sinai with the new covenant through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the fulfillment of the Law in Him.