The pattern of redemption in the exodus—first deliverance (“indicative,” what God does for us), then the giving of the law leading to worship (“imperative,” what we are to do)—provides the structure for law and covenant in biblical theology (see figure 3.1). Moses himself instructs the people to recognize this pattern. When Israelite parents teach their children the reason for the laws they follow, the parents are to place these in the context of God’s saving actions to deliver them from Egypt (Deut 6:20-24).
