1. To establish leadership (9)

Freed slaves are rebellious because they do not know the limits of freedom. They need to fear God, for this is the beginning of wisdom. God taught them awesome respect for himself and for his servant Moses. They could trust and obey Moses because they saw that he talked with God.

2. Preparing to meet God (10-15)

Man is unrighteous in thought, word and deed--but he longs for holiness. God is holy; man can only partake of his holiness by receiving and obeying his word. God put limits around the holy mountain, and instructed the people to consecrate themselves so that they might meet him.

3. The Lord descends (16-25)

The people assembled at the foot of the mountain. God descended to the top of the mountain in fire and thunder; he showed them his power and glory as smoke billowed up and the mountain trembled. He called Moses to come up. The people trembled.

Application: Lord, give me awesome respect as I come to you to pray and study your word.
One Word: Fear God and obey his word