Explore God's moral law given to Moses - timeless principles for living in relationship with God and others.
The Ten Commandments were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai around 1,500 BC. They form the foundation of moral law and reveal God's character and expectations for humanity.
These commandments are not arbitrary rules but loving guidelines from our Creator who knows what is best for us and our relationships with Him and each other.
"And God spoke all these words: 'I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.'"
The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God - worship, reverence, and rest.
The last six commandments focus on our relationships with other people - respect, protection, and honesty.
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself."
Exodus 20:3
God must be first in our lives. Nothing should take His place - not money, success, relationships, or anything else.
Examine your heart regularly. What occupies most of your thoughts, time, and energy? God should be our highest priority.
Exodus 20:4-6
We should not create physical representations to worship or put our trust in created things rather than the Creator.
Be careful not to idolize possessions, people, or pursuits. Worship God alone, not the works of human hands.
Exodus 20:7
God's name is holy and should be treated with reverence. This includes avoiding careless or profane use of His name.
Speak of God with reverence. Use His name purposefully in prayer and worship, never carelessly or disrespectfully.
Exodus 20:8-11
God established a day of rest for worship, reflection, and renewal. It's a gift for our physical and spiritual well-being.
Set aside regular time for worship, rest, and reflection. Don't let busyness crowd out time with God and family.
Exodus 20:12
Respect and care for parents is foundational to a healthy society. This is the first commandment with a promise of blessing.
Show respect, gratitude, and care for parents. This includes both childhood obedience and adult honor and care.
Exodus 20:13
Human life is sacred because we are made in God's image. This prohibits the unlawful taking of human life.
Value all human life. Jesus expanded this to include anger and hatred (Matthew 5:21-22). Choose love over hatred.
Exodus 20:14
Marriage is a sacred covenant. Sexual intimacy is designed by God for the marriage relationship exclusively.
Honor marriage commitments. Guard your heart and actions. Jesus included lustful thoughts in this command (Matthew 5:27-28).
Exodus 20:15
Respect others' property and rights. This includes all forms of theft, fraud, and dishonest gain.
Be honest in all dealings. Work diligently, pay debts, and respect others' possessions. Give rather than take when possible.
Exodus 20:16
Truth is essential for justice and relationships. This prohibits lying, especially in legal matters, but extends to all dishonesty.
Speak truthfully. Avoid gossip, slander, and false accusations. Your word should be trustworthy and reliable.
Exodus 20:17
Contentment protects against many sins. Coveting leads to theft, adultery, and other harmful actions.
Practice gratitude for what God has given you. Find contentment in His provision rather than envying others' possessions.
Jesus didn't come to abolish the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He showed us the heart behind each commandment and revealed that true righteousness goes beyond external obedience to internal transformation.
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them."
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."
While the commandments show us God's standard, they also reveal our need for a Savior. Only through Christ can we be made righteous and empowered to live according to God's will.
Let the Ten Commandments guide your daily decisions. Continue growing in wisdom and understanding with the Grace Speak app.