Exodus 24:4

And Moses wrote down all the words of the LORD. Early the next morning he got up and built an altar at the base of the mountain, along with twelve pillars for the twelve tribes of Israel.

Study Bible

And Moses wrote down all the words of the LORD.
This phrase highlights the importance of recording divine revelation. Moses, as a prophet and leader, ensures that God's commands are preserved for future generations. This act of writing signifies the transition from oral tradition to written scripture, which is foundational for the development of the Bible. The words of the LORD likely refer to the laws and commandments given in the preceding chapters, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This practice of documentation is seen throughout the Pentateuch and is crucial for maintaining the integrity and continuity of God's instructions.

Early the next morning he got up and built an altar at the base of the mountain,
The timing "early the next morning" indicates Moses' prompt obedience and dedication to fulfilling God's commands. The construction of an altar signifies a place of worship and sacrifice, essential elements in the covenant relationship. The location "at the base of the mountain" is significant as it is near Mount Sinai, where God revealed Himself to Moses and the Israelites. This geographical setting underscores the sacredness of the event and the proximity to God's presence. Altars in ancient times were central to worship and served as a physical reminder of divine encounters and covenants.

along with twelve pillars for the twelve tribes of Israel.
The twelve pillars represent the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing the unity and collective identity of the nation under God's covenant. Each pillar stands for a tribe, indicating that the covenant is inclusive and binding for all of Israel. This act of setting up pillars is reminiscent of other biblical instances where stones or pillars are used as memorials or witnesses to significant events, such as Jacob's pillar at Bethel. The number twelve is significant throughout scripture, often representing completeness and divine order, as seen in the twelve apostles in the New Testament. This typology points to the continuity of God's plan from the Old to the New Covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites. He is responsible for writing down God's words and leading the people in covenantal worship.

2. The LORD
The divine being who communicates with Moses, providing the laws and commandments that Moses records.

3. The Mountain
Refers to Mount Sinai, a significant location where God reveals Himself and establishes His covenant with Israel.

4. The Altar
Constructed by Moses as a place of worship and sacrifice, symbolizing the people's commitment to the covenant with God.

5. Twelve Pillars
Represent the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the unity and collective participation of the entire nation in the covenant.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Scripture
Moses' act of writing down God's words underscores the importance of Scripture as a foundation for faith and practice. Believers are encouraged to engage deeply with the Bible, recognizing it as the authoritative word of God.

Symbolism of the Altar and Pillars
The altar and twelve pillars serve as powerful symbols of worship and community. Christians are called to build their lives on the foundation of Christ and to live in unity with fellow believers.

Covenant Commitment
Just as the Israelites were called to commit to God's covenant, Christians are invited to enter into a covenant relationship with God through Jesus Christ, marked by obedience and faithfulness.

Early Rising for Worship
Moses rose early to fulfill God's commands, illustrating the priority of worship and obedience. Believers are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with God, dedicating time and effort to spiritual disciplines.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role as a mediator in this passage foreshadow the role of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

2. What significance do the twelve pillars hold for the Israelites, and how can this symbolism be applied to the unity of the Church today?

3. In what ways can we, like Moses, prioritize God's word in our daily lives?

4. How does the construction of the altar at the base of the mountain reflect the Israelites' relationship with God, and what can we learn from this about our own worship practices?

5. How do the events in Exodus 24:4 connect to the broader account of God's covenant with His people throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 27:1-8
This passage also involves the writing of God's laws and the construction of an altar, emphasizing the importance of remembering and adhering to God's commandments.

Joshua 4:1-9
The setting up of twelve stones as a memorial by the Jordan River parallels the twelve pillars, both serving as physical reminders of God's faithfulness and the people's covenantal obligations.

Hebrews 9:18-22
Discusses the necessity of blood in establishing a covenant, which is relevant to the sacrificial context of the altar Moses built.