Exodus 24: Seventy Elders See God

Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide, (2002), 52

Moses’ explanation of God’s laws to the children of Israel are found in Exodus 20–23. For them to progress any further, they first needed to commit themselves to live those laws. Exodus 24 tells of the commitment the Israelites made that prepared them to receive the higher laws associated with the temple. Consequently, the Lord again called Moses up to Sinai for a fourth time to receive further information about ordinances that would allow the people to enter His presence.
Jesus Christ appearing to Moses and seventy elders

Understanding the Scriptures

Exodus 24

One voice (v. 3)With unity of feeling 
Behold (v. 8)This is 
Nobles (v. 11)Leaders 
He laid not his hand (v. 11)God’s power did not hurt the Israelites. Normally, seeing God would be more than they could endure. 
Minister (v. 13)Helper 

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Exodus 24.

Activity A iconHow Important Are Covenants?

  1. 1.

    After Moses gave the people God’s laws, what did they covenant to do? (see Exodus 24:3–8).

  2. 2.

    According to Exodus 24:9–11, what happened to seventy elders in Israel because they made this covenant?

  3. 3.

    What has the Lord promised will occur as you make and keep covenants with Him? (see Mosiah 18:8–10; D&C 20:77, 79). How do these promises relate to what happened to Moses and the seventy elders?