The Ten Commandments, found in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:4-21, are among the most well-known and enduring elements of the Old Testament. These divine laws, given to Moses on Mount Sinai, have transcended their ancient origins to become foundational principles in both religious and secular contexts. For Christians, the Ten Commandments hold a special place, not just as historical artifacts, but as living guidelines for ethical and moral behavior. This raises an important question: Why do Christians still follow the Ten Commandments today?
To understand this, we must delve into several key areas: the nature of the Ten Commandments, their role in Christian theology, their relevance in contemporary ethics, and their enduring significance in guiding Christian life.
The Nature of the Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments are often seen as the core of the Mosaic Law, which encompasses a broader legal and moral code given to the Israelites. Unlike other laws in the Torah that address specific cultural and ceremonial practices, the Ten Commandments are more universal in nature. They address fundamental aspects of human behavior and relationships: our duties to God and our duties to one another.
The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God: 1. "You shall have no other gods before me." 2. "You shall not make for yourself a carved image." 3. "You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain." 4. "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy."
The remaining six commandments address our relationships with other people: 5. "Honor your father and your mother." 6. "You shall not murder." 7. "You shall not commit adultery." 8. "You shall not steal." 9. "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor." 10. "You shall not covet."
These commandments encapsulate principles of monotheism, reverence, rest, respect, and integrity, forming a moral framework that is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.
The Role of the Ten Commandments in Christian Theology
In Christian theology, the Ten Commandments are seen not just as a set of rules, but as a reflection of God's character and will. Jesus Himself affirmed their importance. When asked about the greatest commandment, He summarized the law in two principles: love for God and love for neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). This summary echoes the structure of the Ten Commandments, with the first part focusing on our relationship with God and the second part on our relationship with others.
Moreover, Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17-18). This fulfillment means that while Christians are not bound by the ceremonial and civil laws of ancient Israel, the moral principles embodied in the Ten Commandments remain relevant. They serve as a guide for living a life that honors God and respects others.
The Apostle Paul also emphasized the enduring moral principles of the Ten Commandments. In Romans 13:8-10, he wrote that love is the fulfillment of the law, and he specifically referenced several of the commandments. Paul’s teaching indicates that the commandments are not obsolete but are fulfilled in the law of love.
The Relevance of the Ten Commandments in Contemporary Ethics
In a world that is increasingly complex and morally ambiguous, the Ten Commandments provide clear and timeless ethical guidelines. They address issues that are still pertinent today: idolatry, blasphemy, rest, family relationships, violence, sexual ethics, property rights, honesty, and contentment.
For instance, the commandment to "honor your father and your mother" (Exodus 20:12) speaks to the importance of family and respect for authority, values that are crucial in any society. The prohibition against murder (Exodus 20:13) underscores the sanctity of human life, a principle that undergirds contemporary debates on issues such as abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment.
The commandment against adultery (Exodus 20:14) highlights the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships, which is particularly relevant in an age where marital fidelity is often undermined. The prohibition against stealing (Exodus 20:15) and bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16) reinforces the values of honesty and respect for others’ property, essential for social trust and economic stability.
The Enduring Significance in Guiding Christian Life
For Christians, the Ten Commandments are more than ethical guidelines; they are a means of sanctification, helping believers to grow in holiness and Christ-likeness. By adhering to these commandments, Christians demonstrate their love for God and their commitment to living according to His will.
The Ten Commandments also serve as a mirror, revealing our sinfulness and our need for a Savior. As Paul wrote in Romans 3:20, "through the law we become conscious of our sin." The commandments show us where we fall short, driving us to seek forgiveness and grace through Jesus Christ.
Furthermore, the Ten Commandments are a source of wisdom and instruction. Psalm 119:105 declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." By following these commandments, Christians find guidance in making moral and ethical decisions, navigating the complexities of modern life with a clear sense of right and wrong.
Conclusion
The Ten Commandments remain relevant for Christians today because they encapsulate timeless moral principles that reflect God's character and will. They provide clear ethical guidelines that address fundamental aspects of human behavior and relationships. In a world of moral ambiguity, they offer a steadfast foundation for living a life that honors God and respects others.
By following the Ten Commandments, Christians not only uphold a rich tradition that dates back to the very beginnings of their faith, but they also engage in a transformative process of sanctification, growing in holiness and Christ-likeness. These commandments are not just relics of the past; they are living words that continue to speak into the lives of believers, guiding them in their journey of faith and their pursuit of righteousness.
