Exodus 24:3

KJV

And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the LORD hath said will we do.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} came {H935} and told {H5608} the people {H5971} all the words {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}, and all the judgments {H4941}: and all the people {H5971} answered {H6030} with one {H259} voice {H6963}, and said {H559}, All the words {H1697} which the LORD {H3068} hath said {H1696} will we do {H6213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe came and told the people everything ADONAI had said, including all the rulings. The people answered with one voice: "We will obey every word ADONAI has spoken."

Berean Standard Bible

When Moses came and told the people all the words and ordinances of the LORD, they all responded with one voice: “All the words that the LORD has spoken, we will do.”

American Standard Version

And Moses came and told the people all the words of Jehovah, and all the ordinances: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which Jehovah hath spoken will we do.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 24:3 records a pivotal moment in the covenant relationship between God and Israel at Mount Sinai, where Moses, serving as the divinely appointed mediator, faithfully transmits the entirety of the LORD's revealed laws and judgments to the assembled people. In a remarkable display of unity and initial commitment, the entire Israelite congregation responds with a singular voice, unequivocally pledging their full obedience to all the words God has spoken, thereby formally ratifying their acceptance of the Mosaic Covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed as the culmination of God's initial legislative revelation at Sinai and the prelude to the formal covenant ratification ceremony. It follows the dramatic giving of the [Ten Commandments](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments") in [Exodus 20](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Decalogue and First Laws") and the subsequent detailed "Book of the Covenant" (civil and ceremonial laws) found in [Exodus 21-23](/exodus/21 "Exodus 21 - Laws Concerning Servants"). Moses' descent from the mountain and his recitation of these divine decrees in [Exodus 24:3](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3 - Israel's Covenant Affirmation") marks the crucial step where God's terms are presented to the people for their explicit consent before the blood covenant ceremony described in the latter half of [Exodus 24](/exodus/24 "Exodus 24 - The Covenant Ceremony and Ratification"). Moses acts as the indispensable intermediary, ensuring the people fully comprehend and formally accept the stipulations of their unique relationship with Yahweh.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the base of Mount Sinai, where the Israelites had encamped since [Exodus 19](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - Israel at Sinai"). The mountain itself had been transformed into a terrifying manifestation of God's holy presence, enveloped in smoke, fire, thunder, and lightning, accompanied by a trumpet blast (e.g., [Exodus 19:16-19](/exodus/19-16 "Exodus 19:16-19 - God's Appearance at Sinai")). This awe-inspiring display underscored the absolute sovereignty and holiness of the God who was initiating this covenant. In the ancient Near East, covenants were a well-established socio-political institution, often structured as suzerain-vassal treaties. In such treaties, a powerful king (suzerain) would dictate terms to a lesser king or nation (vassal), who would then formally declare their allegiance and commitment to obey. God, as the divine Suzerain, establishes His covenant with Israel, His chosen vassal nation, outlining the stipulations for their unique relationship. Israel's unanimous declaration in [Exodus 24:3](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3 - Israel's Covenant Affirmation") perfectly mirrors the vassal's formal and public acceptance of the suzerain's terms, signifying their voluntary submission to God's rule and their commitment to live as His distinct, holy people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse is central to several profound themes. It highlights the theme of **Divine Revelation and Mediation**, as God communicates His will through Moses, who then faithfully conveys it to the people. It underscores the theme of **Covenant Initiation and Ratification**, marking the formal establishment of the Mosaic Covenant between Yahweh and Israel, a relationship based on divine grace and human obedience. The people's unified response introduces the theme of **Corporate Responsibility and Unity**, emphasizing the nation's collective commitment to God's law. Furthermore, the explicit declaration of obedience foreshadows the recurring biblical theme of **Obedience as a Response to Grace**, even as Israel's subsequent history would reveal the challenge of sustained obedience and the need for a transformed heart (cf. [Deuteronomy 5:29](/deuteronomy/5-29 "God's Desire for Obedience") and [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "The New Covenant Promised")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Words (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_ H1697):** The Hebrew term דָבָר (_dâbâr_) is profoundly significant, extending beyond mere spoken utterances to encompass "a matter (as spoken of) or thing," "commandment," "decree," "deed," and "report." In this context, "all the words of the LORD" refers to the comprehensive body of divine revelation and instruction given to Moses, including both the foundational Ten Commandments and the detailed social, civil, and religious ordinances of the Book of the Covenant. It denotes the complete and authoritative nature of God's communicated will, encompassing both principles and their practical implications.
* **Judgments (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_ H4941):** The word מִשְׁפָּט (_mishpâṭ_) denotes "a verdict... pronounced judicially," "a sentence or formal decree," "divine law," "justice," and "right." When coupled with "words," it specifically refers to the legal rulings, ordinances, and customary laws that provide concrete applications of God's broader principles. These "judgments" offer practical guidelines for Israel's communal life, justice system, and ethical conduct, emphasizing the actionable and binding nature of God's covenant demands.
* **One (Hebrew, _ʼechâd'_ H259):** The numeral אֶחָד (_ʼechâd_) means "united," "one," or "alone." In the phrase "with one voice," it powerfully conveys the complete unanimity, solidarity, and collective enthusiasm of the Israelite assembly. This signifies that their acceptance of the covenant was not a fragmented or majority decision, but a unified, heartfelt, and public declaration by the entire nation, emphasizing their corporate identity and shared commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments":** This clause highlights Moses' indispensable role as the divine messenger and mediator. He faithfully descends from Mount Sinai, not to present his own ideas, but to transmit the entirety of God's revealed will—encompassing both the foundational "words" (commands, principles) and the specific "judgments" (ordinances, applications) that constitute the Book of the Covenant. This act of telling signifies the formal and comprehensive presentation of the covenant terms, ensuring Israel's full awareness of their obligations.
* **"and all the people answered with one voice, and said":** This segment underscores the collective and unified response of the Israelite nation. The phrase "with one voice" (literally "one sound") conveys a remarkable sense of solidarity, agreement, and immediate assent, indicating that there was no dissent, hesitation, or division among them. Their unanimous verbal affirmation emphasizes the gravity, public nature, and corporate ownership of their commitment.
* **"All the words which the LORD hath said will we do.":** This concluding declaration is the heart of the verse—Israel's solemn, unqualified pledge of obedience and covenant acceptance. It is an explicit commitment to abide by every single command and stipulation given by God. This statement serves as the formal ratification of the covenant from the human side, signifying their willingness to enter into this unique relationship with Yahweh as their sovereign King and to live according to His revealed will.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 24:3 employs several powerful literary devices to underscore the profound significance of this covenant moment. **Repetition** is prominently featured in the phrase "all the words... all the judgments... All the words," which emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's revelation and, crucially, Israel's total, unqualified commitment to every aspect of it. This reiteration highlights that no part of God's command was to be ignored or selectively obeyed. The phrase "with one voice" functions as a potent **Symbolism** of unity, solidarity, and collective resolve, painting a vivid auditory and conceptual picture of a nation wholly aligned in their initial, enthusiastic response to God's call. This unanimity also serves as a form of **Emphasis**, drawing the reader's attention to the extraordinary and ideal state of Israel's initial covenant affirmation. Furthermore, the clear distinction between Moses' role in "telling" and the people's act of "answering" highlights the principle of **Mediated Revelation**, where divine truth is conveyed through a chosen human agent, requiring a conscious, voluntary, and public human response.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 24:3 is foundational for understanding the nature of the Mosaic Covenant and, by extension, God's relational approach to humanity. It reveals a God who initiates covenant, graciously revealing His holy will and inviting His people into a relationship defined by mutual commitment. Israel's unanimous declaration highlights the principle of human responsibility and the necessity of a willing, obedient heart in response to divine grace. While their subsequent history would tragically reveal the challenge of sustained obedience and the limitations of a covenant based on human performance, this moment establishes the ideal: a people wholly devoted to living according to God's righteous standards. It foreshadows the deeper covenantal work God desires to do, moving beyond external law to internal transformation, a theme fully developed in the prophetic writings.

* [Deuteronomy 5:29](/deuteronomy/5-29 "God's Desire for Obedience")
* [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "The New Covenant Promised")
* [Romans 10:9](/romans/10-9 "Confession and Belief for Salvation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in Exodus 24:3 serves as a powerful and enduring reminder of the call to hear and respond to God's Word in our own lives. Just as ancient Israel was presented with the comprehensive "words of the LORD, and all the judgments," so too are believers today called to embrace the entirety of God's revealed truth in Scripture. Our spiritual journey begins with a conscious, heartfelt decision to submit to God's authority and commit to His will, not merely picking and choosing which commands we find convenient or comfortable. This verse challenges us to examine the depth of our own "yes" to God—is it a unified, wholehearted affirmation, or is it partial and hesitant? While Israel's initial enthusiasm eventually waned, their declaration sets a benchmark for the sincere desire for obedience that should characterize our relationship with God. It invites us to consider whether our lives truly reflect the words, "All the words which the LORD hath said will we do," not just in declaration, but in daily practice, empowered by His Holy Spirit. It calls us to a holistic, rather than selective, obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Israel's unanimous "with one voice" response challenge me to consider about my own level of unity and commitment to God's will within my community or church?**
* **How comprehensively am I engaging with "all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments" in my life, or am I selectively obeying only parts that are comfortable or convenient?**
* **What specific areas of my life need a renewed pledge of obedience, echoing Israel's declaration, "All the words which the LORD hath said will we do"?**
* **Considering Israel's later struggles, what spiritual disciplines or practices can help me sustain my commitment to God's Word beyond an initial enthusiastic declaration, relying on God's grace rather than solely on my own strength?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Book of the Covenant" mentioned in the context of this verse?**

Answer: The "Book of the Covenant" refers to the extensive collection of laws and statutes given by God to Moses immediately following the Ten Commandments, primarily recorded in [Exodus 21-23](/exodus/21 "Exodus 21 - Laws Concerning Servants"). These laws serve as practical elaborations on the broad principles of the Decalogue, providing specific civil, social, and religious regulations for the Israelite community as they prepared to live as God's holy nation. They cover a wide range of topics, including laws concerning servants, personal injury, property rights, justice in the courts, social ethics, and regulations for worship and festivals. Moses reads these specific judgments to the people before their affirmation in [Exodus 24:3](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3 - Israel's Covenant Affirmation"), ensuring they fully understood the detailed terms of the covenant they were entering into.

**Why is the unanimity of the people's response ("with one voice") significant?**

Answer: The unanimity of Israel's response in [Exodus 24:3](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3 - Israel's Covenant Affirmation") is profoundly significant because it demonstrates a collective, unified, and willing acceptance of God's covenant terms. It signifies that the entire nation, not merely a select few or a majority, formally and publicly committed themselves to obey God's laws. This "one voice" symbolizes an ideal state of national spiritual unity and a shared desire to align with God's will. It underscores the voluntary nature of their entry into the covenant and sets a precedent for the importance of corporate obedience and shared commitment within God's people. It highlights the ideal of a unified response to divine revelation.

**Did Israel successfully keep this promise of obedience throughout their history?**

Answer: Sadly, no. While Israel's initial declaration in [Exodus 24:3](/exodus/24-3 "Exodus 24:3 - Israel's Covenant Affirmation") was sincere and enthusiastic, their subsequent history, as chronicled throughout the Old Testament, is largely a narrative of repeated failures to fully and consistently keep their covenant promise. From the immediate incident of the golden calf (e.g., [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf")) to the periods of the Judges and the Kings, Israel frequently turned away from God's commands, pursuing idolatry, injustice, and disobedience. This consistent failure highlighted humanity's inherent inability to perfectly obey God's righteous law through sheer willpower, ultimately pointing to the need for a new covenant and a transformed heart, as powerfully prophesied in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "The New Covenant").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 24:3, with Israel's enthusiastic pledge of obedience to the Mosaic Covenant, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant, mediated by Moses, served to reveal God's righteous standards and, crucially, humanity's inherent inability to perfectly uphold them, as Israel's subsequent history tragically demonstrated. Jesus, however, is the ultimate and perfect Mediator of a new and better covenant, as powerfully articulated in [Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Jesus, Mediator of a Better Covenant"). Unlike Israel's flawed and fleeting obedience, Jesus perfectly fulfilled "all the words" of the LORD, living a life of complete and unwavering submission to God's will (e.g., [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Jesus Fulfills the Law")). His perfect obedience, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross, established the New Covenant, ratified not by the blood of animals but by His own precious, atoning blood (e.g., [Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "The New Covenant in My Blood")). Under this New Covenant, God's law is no longer merely an external code to which humanity pledges a fleeting "we will do," but it is written on the hearts and minds of believers by the indwelling Holy Spirit (e.g., [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "The New Covenant"), [Hebrews 10:16](/hebrews/10-16 "The Law Written on Our Hearts")). This internal transformation enables true and lasting obedience that flows from a renewed nature, not just an outward promise, allowing believers to genuinely walk in the ways God desires (cf. [Ezekiel 36:27](/ezekiel/36-27 "New Heart and Spirit")). Thus, Christ perfectly embodies and secures the covenant relationship that Israel only imperfectly aspired to in Exodus 24:3.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 19:8

And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.

Exodus 24:7

And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.

Joshua 24:22

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye [are] witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, [We are] witnesses.

Deuteronomy 5:1

¶ And Moses called all Israel, and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the statutes and judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and do them.

Deuteronomy 6:1

¶ Now these [are] the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do [them] in the land whither ye go to possess it:

Deuteronomy 4:1

¶ Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do [them], that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you.

Deuteronomy 4:5

Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.