Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Exodus 19

This chapter introduces the solemnity of the giving of the law upon mount Sinai, which was one of the most striking appearances of the divine glory that ever was in this lower world. We have here, I. The circumstances of time and place, Exodus 19:1, 19:2. II. The covenant between God and Israel settled in general. The gracious proposal God made to them (Exodus 19:3-19:6), and their consent to the proposal, Exodus 19:7, 19:8. III. Notice given three days before of God’s design to give the law out of a thick cloud, Exodus 19:9. Orders given to prepare the people to receive the law (Exodus 19:10-19:13), and care taken to execute those orders, Exodus 19:14, 19:15. IV. A terrible appearance of God’s glory upon mount Sinai, Exodus 19:16-19:20. V. Silence proclaimed, and strict charges given to the people to observe decorum while God spoke to them, Exodus 19:21-19:25 MHBCC 70.1