Abraham’s descendants were called the Children of Israel. God confirmed a covenant with these people soon after they fled Egypt.

What Were the Terms of the Old Covenant?

Become a kingdom of priests

“Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.” Exodus 19:5, 6

According to the covenant, the Israelites were to be the bridge between God and the heathen. The position of priests meant that they were to reveal the character of God to the Gentiles. As a holy nation, they were to stand apart from the other nations. They were not to engage in idol worship and Pagan practices.

Obey the law

“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.” Exodus 24:7

“And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone.” Deuteronomy 4:13

The Old Covenant was based upon the law. The 10 commandments were even known as the “words of the covenant” (see Ex 34:28). In essence, the law was the contract language for the Old Covenant.

What Was Israel’s Response to the Covenant?

“And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him. 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 19:7-8

Notice, that the people responded that they will do what God commanded. In this manner, they pledged themselves to be God’s special people and subjects of His authority.

How Was the Covenant Ratified?

“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

Knowing the history of the Jewish nation, we now know that the Jewish people attempted obedience in their own power. They tried to establish their own righteousness. They would soon discover that it was impossible to keep God’s law. Through this covenant, the people would hopefully see their sinfulness and realize their need for a Savior.