The Enduring Relevance of the Ten Commandments

Mar 27
02:44

2024

Debra Lohrere

Debra Lohrere

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In the realm of Christian discourse, a contentious debate persists regarding the ongoing relevance of the Ten Commandments. While a consensus exists that nine of these ancient edicts remain pertinent, opinions diverge on the necessity of the fourth commandment, which mandates the observance of the Sabbath. Some argue that the advent of grace supersedes the old law, rendering all ten commandments obsolete. This article delves into the biblical foundations of these commandments and examines their significance in the modern Christian faith.

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The Biblical Foundation of the Sabbath

The origin of the Sabbath traces back to the creation narrative,The Enduring Relevance of the Ten Commandments Articles where it is established as a day of rest and remembrance. Genesis 2:2-3 (KJV) states, "And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made." This passage underscores the sanctity of the Sabbath, instituted long before the Ten Commandments were given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

The fourth commandment, as recorded in Exodus 20:8-11 (KJV), commands, "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work..." The use of the word "remember" suggests that the Sabbath was not a new concept but a pre-existing practice to be continued.

The Ten Commandments: A Manifestation of Love

The argument that the commandments are no longer valid overlooks their fundamental purpose: to guide us in loving God and our neighbors. The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God, while the remaining six address our interactions with others. Here is a brief overview of the Ten Commandments:

  1. Worship no other gods.
  2. Do not create idols.
  3. Do not misuse God's name.
  4. Observe the Sabbath and keep it holy.
  5. Honor your parents.
  6. Do not murder.
  7. Do not commit adultery.
  8. Do not steal.
  9. Do not lie.
  10. Do not covet.

These commandments, if followed, would foster a world free from violence, theft, and deceit. They are not merely rules but a blueprint for a harmonious society.

Faith, Works, and Obedience

The true measure of our devotion to God is reflected in our adherence to His commandments. James 2:20 (KJV) states, "Faith without works is dead." Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of obedience in Matthew 7:21 (KJV), "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."

Jesus' affirmation of the commandments is found in John 14:15 (KJV), "If ye love me, keep my commandments." This sentiment is echoed in 1 John 2:4 (KJV), which warns that those who claim to know God but do not keep His commandments are deceiving themselves. The intertwining of knowledge, love, and obedience is a central theme in the writings of John, culminating in 1 John 5:3 (KJV), "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

Conclusion

The Ten Commandments, far from being obsolete, continue to serve as a moral compass for believers. They encapsulate the essence of a life lived in love and obedience to God. While the debate over the Sabbath's relevance persists, the broader message of the commandments remains clear: to love God fully is to follow His guidance faithfully.

All Bible references are from the King James Version.