In the heart of Exodus, we find a pivotal moment where the Israelites, having been delivered from Egypt, stand at the foot of Mount Sinai to affirm their covenant with God.
“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.” Exodus 24:3
This moment was not just a mere agreement; it was the dawn of a journey for these new believers in their relationship with God.
Reflecting on Israel’s journey from slavery to this point of commitment helps us understand the significance of their decision. They had witnessed God’s mighty hand through plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and now, they stood ready to obey His commands.
This story is a bridge for us today, illustrating that like the Israelites, new believers are on a journey. God’s dealings with them provide us with a roadmap to assist new believers as they begin their walk with the Lord.
1. New Believers Need a Steward
“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.” Exodus 24:3
Just as the Israelites needed Moses to communicate God’s commands and guide them, every new believer needs a spiritual steward. A “Moses” in their lives can help them understand how to bring their needs to God and navigate their new faith journey. Someone who can mentor them, pray with them, and help apply the Bible in the context of their daily lives.
2. New Believers Need Structure
“And Moses wrote all the words of the Lord, and rose up early in the morning, and builded an altar under the hill, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel.” Exodus 24:4
Exodus 24:4 shows Moses not only delivering God’s words but also setting an example of obedience and establishing a time and place for worship. This structure was crucial for the Israelites and is equally important for new believers today. Providing a framework of biblical teaching, daily reading and prayer, fellowship, and worship helps ground them in their faith. As Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to forsake assembling together, we are reminded of the importance of gathering to encourage and spur one another towards love and good deeds.
3. Every New Believer Needs Sacrifice
“And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto the Lord.” Exodus 24:5
The sacrifices in Exodus 24:5 were significant. They represented a deep commitment to God, involving time, talent, and treasure. This teaches us that following Jesus requires personal sacrifice. It’s not just about acknowledging Him with our words but also dedicating our lives, resources, and efforts to His service. The oxen sacrificed by the Israelites were valuable, representing a significant investment and commitment. In the same way, new believers today are called to offer their lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1), understanding that true faith involves giving of ourselves fully.
4. Every New Believer Needs to Deal with Their Sin
“And Moses took half of the blood, and put it in basons; and half of the blood he sprinkled on the altar.” Exodus 24:6
Moses taking the blood and sprinkling it on the altar and the people (Exodus 24:6 & 8) was a powerful symbol of purification and covenant. This act pictures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood cleanses us from all sin. New believers need to understand the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the importance of repentance and forgiveness in their personal walk with God. Ephesians 5:25 highlights the love Christ has for the church, a love so profound that He gave Himself up for it. This sacrificial love is the foundation upon which believers must build their lives, recognizing the church as the gathering of believers united by faith in Christ’s redeeming blood.
5. New Believers Must Have Scripture
“And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the Lord hath made with you concerning all these words.” Exodus 24:8
Finally, “all these words” from Exodus 24:8 underscores the importance of adherence to God’s Word. Moses made a point to ensure that the Israelites were committed to following every command God gave them. Similarly, new believers must not only read the Bible but study it diligently. The distinction between reading for familiarity and studying for depth is akin to the difference between skimming a textbook and engaging in deep study to prepare for an exam.
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
By embracing these principles—stewardship, structure, sacrifice, dealing with sin, and scripture—new believers can establish a solid foundation for their faith journey. Just as the Israelites committed themselves to follow God’s commands, so too must new believers today.
