THEOSISWlastow G.K.
In previous discussions in chapter 17 note 19 and chapter 18 note 20, we noted that after the profound proclamation of the law, Moses 'enters into darkness' (verse 21, ch. 20). At God's command, he brought forth the 'book of the covenant,' and in verse 3, he descended from the mountain to the people for specific purposes: a) to reveal to them the guidelines that had been established (v. 3); b) to instruct them to write or transcribe it diligently (v. 4); c) to prepare an altar and to offer sacrifices (vv. 4-5); d) to establish a solemn commitment in the name of the Lord with the people (vv. 6-8), concluding with the 'book of the covenant.' Following this, he ascended the mountain with the elders to serve as witnesses to their covenant with Yahweh, the Creator of all.
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Subsequently, Moses and Joshua climbed higher, while Aaron and the elders returned to the people. The question was posed to the people twice regarding their desire to accept the privileges and responsibilities associated with being 'a holy nation, a royal priesthood'; both times, preceding the proclamation of the Ten Commandments and following the recitation of the 'book of the covenant,' the people responded affirmatively (19: 6, 6, 7, 8, and 24: 3-7). Thus, there was no grounds for the people to claim that the law was given without their consent.