The second dispensation of Bible history is commonly called the "Mosaic Period." An understanding of this period is important for it is the history of the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham-that through Abraham's seed God would bless all families of the earth (Gen. 12:1-3). We are informed how God developed and dealt with the family out of which the Savior of the world was born.  

I. Significant Facts Of The Mosaic Dispensation:

A.  Name-This period is named after Moses, for it was through him God delivered the law to the Jews.

B.  Duration

1.  This age begins with the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai and lasts until the death of Christ, a span of about 1500 years.

2.  The Bible record of this period may be read from Exodus 20 through Acts 1.

C.  Background

1.  Abraham had been promised a great nation and land (Gen. 12:1-2). Jacob, Abraham's grandson, whose name was changed to Israel, fathered twelve sons, known as the twelve Patriarchs. The descendants of these sons became known as the twelve tribes of Israel.

2.  The twelve tribes of Israel formed the nation of Israel. Through Joseph, the great-grandson of Abraham, the Israelites spent 215 years in Egypt (Read Gen. 12-50). When God was ready to lead this nation to the promised land, He chose Moses to be His spokesman (Read Ex. 1-20). This occurred 430 years from the time of the original promise to Abraham (Gal. 3:16-17).

D.  Importance

1.  Many interesting and profitable stories are contained in this period. Valuable lessons can be gleaned from the lives of Moses, Joshua, Samson, Samuel, Saul, David, Solomon, Elijah, Elisha, and many others (Rom. 15:4; Heb. 11:32).

2.  As we survey this period, however, keep in mind the underlying thread which ties it to the rest of the Bible-God is preparing the world for Christ.

3.  We can best analyze the significance of this period in relationship to Christ by studying about the law of Moses.