Moses’ people have been redeemed from slavery, but this does not mean they are ready for life on God’s mountain. They need healing, and the healing begins with a test.

As Israel’s physical journey away from slavery begins in earnest, God leads his people into a second crisis and reveals that their spiritual journey away from slavery is far from complete.

God leads his people into a third crisis, which is really a chance for them to re-sit their first exam. This time, however, they are no longer a baby nation, and the expectations are greater.

God decides his children are finally ready for the test he did not want to give them at first — and for the first time, they pass.

The leader of yet another foreign nation approaches God’s people, but this time the nature of the test is not as clear.

As the people get used to the idea that Moses speaks directly for God, an unexpected problem arises.

Israel finally arrives at the mountain on the far side of the wilderness, and begin their preparations to meet with God.

God finally descends to meet his people, but even after all their preparations his people are still not ready.

Having formed his new government, the Lord begins to define his relationship with Israel. The first rule? Love me as I have loved you.

The Lord goes on to explain that one practical way to love him is to flee from idolatry. But why is idolatry such a big deal?