Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

The Covenant Made at Sinai

Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

Summary

The discussion centers on the concept of the Bible as a covenant book, emphasizing the importance of understanding God's covenants throughout scripture. The hosts highlight the often misunderstood covenant with Moses, which includes the Ten Commandments and numerous laws. Many Christians mistakenly believe this covenant teaches salvation through obedience to the law, contrasting it with the New Testament's message of salvation by grace through faith in Christ.

The hosts clarify that the covenant with Moses is rooted in God's prior covenant of grace, as seen in the Exodus narrative. They point out that God's declaration to Moses at the burning bush emphasizes His commitment to His promises, framing the giving of the law as a response to God's grace rather than a means to earn salvation. The first words of the Ten Commandments reinforce this idea, as they remind the Israelites of their deliverance from slavery before outlining their obligations.

Ultimately, the conversation underscores that all biblical covenants, including those with Noah, Abraham, and Moses, are interconnected and reflect the unfolding nature of God's grace. The hosts encourage listeners to appreciate the grace inherent in God's law, suggesting that it serves as a guide to living in alignment with His will and receiving His blessings.

Show Notes

We're bound to misunderstand the law that God delivered to His people at Mount Sinai if we forget His deliverance of Israel from slavery. Today, Sinclair Ferguson reminds us that God's law is given in a context of grace. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

More from Things Unseen with Sinclair B. Ferguson

Oct 27, 2026

Even after the earth was deluged with a flood, and even after the world united in rebellion at Babel, God kept His promise to save His people. Today, Sinclair Ferguson considers God's covenant promises to Noah and Abraham. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

Oct 26, 2026

After Adam sinned in the garden, God made a promise of salvation that would shape the course of history and require the greatest sacrifice ever made. Today, Sinclair Ferguson examines the first promise of the covenant of grace. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

Oct 23, 2026

As with Adam and Eve, God delights in uniquely fitting a man and woman for lifelong unity. Today, Sinclair Ferguson considers the deep friendship in marriage that establishes a stable home in which families can flourish. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

Oct 22, 2026

Superficial attraction doesn't produce respect—character does. Today, Sinclair Ferguson identifies a key characteristic for every faithful, fruitful Christian marriage. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

Oct 21, 2026

God's love for families is seen in His dedicating one of the Ten Commandments to the relationship between children and parents. Today, Sinclair Ferguson reflects on our lifelong calling to honor our father and mother. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/

See all episodes →