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Exodus 18:16
When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do makethem know the statutes of God, and his laws.

Deuteronomy 4:1,5
Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to dothem, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you…

Deuteronomy 5:1
And Moses called all Israel, and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the statutes and judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and do them.

the way

1 Samuel 12:23
Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:

Psalm 32:8
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

Psalm 143:8
Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.

work

Deuteronomy 1:18
And I commanded you at that time all the things which ye should do.

Ezekiel 3:17
Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

Matthew 28:20
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway,even unto the end of the world. Amen.

and show them the way to live
This phrase underscores the practical application of God's laws in daily life. It is not enough to know the statutes; the Israelites must also understand how to live them out. This guidance is akin to the wisdom literature found in Proverbs, which offers practical advice for living a life pleasing to God. The "way to live" can be seen as a precursor to the concept of "walking in the Spirit" found inGalatians 5:16, where believers are called to live according to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This phrase also foreshadows Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be "the way" inJohn 14:6, embodying the perfect example of living according to God's will.

and the work they must do
This final phrase highlights the importance of action and responsibility within the community. The work refers to the duties and tasks necessary for maintaining order and justice among the people. In the historical context, this would include the administration of justice, community service, and religious observance. The concept of work is integral to the biblical narrative, beginning with God's command to Adam to tend the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15). In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to do good works as a reflection of their faith (Ephesians 2:10). This phrase also points to the active role of believers in God's redemptive plan, as they are called to be co-laborers with Christ (1 Corinthians 3:9).

“Teach them the statutes and laws” (Exodus 18:20) calls leaders to pass on God’s revealed commands so the people know His will, not guess at it.

• Moses had already received many ordinances (Exodus 15:25; 16:28); now he must make them clear, much likeDeuteronomy 6:6-9 urges parents to speak of God’s words “when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road.”

• God’s statutes are trustworthy and life-giving (Psalm 19:7-11). By teaching them, Moses safeguards the nation from drifting into opinion or tradition.

• The New Testament echoes this pattern: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching” (2 Timothy 3:16-17), showing that instruction remains a central task for every generation.

• Practical take-away:

– Communicate Scripture regularly and plainly.

– Use both public proclamation (Nehemiah 8:8) and personal conversation (Acts 20:20).

To “show them the way to live” (lit. “the way in which they must walk”) means modeling obedient, God-centered lifestyles.

•Deuteronomy 5:32-33 urges Israel to walk in all God’s ways “so that you may live and prosper.” The truth must be seen, not merely heard.

• Scripture is a lamp for the path (Psalm 119:105), but people need guides who walk that path first. Paul told the Corinthians, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

• Jesus embodied this principle: “I have given you an example” (John 13:15).

• Practical take-away:

– Let your own conduct illustrate God’s standards (Matthew 5:16).

– Disciple others life-on-life, not just in classroom settings (Philippians 4:9).

Finally, Moses is to clarify “the work they must do.” Knowing the rules and seeing the lifestyle still require hands-on obedience.

• Israel’s priests, judges, and craftsmen each had assignments (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:30-35). Clear job descriptions prevent confusion and conflict (Numbers 4:49).

• Every believer today is “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10) and equipped by the Spirit with gifts for service (1 Corinthians 12:4-7).

•Colossians 3:23 reminds us to work “with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”

• Practical take-away:

– Help others identify their God-given roles.

– Offer training and accountability so tasks are done God’s way (2 Timothy 2:2).

Exodus 18:20 sketches a balanced discipleship plan: clearly teach God’s Word, visibly model its lifestyle, and actively guide people into the specific works God has prepared for them. Truth, example, and practical service together form a healthy, obedient community.