Ten Commandments: Overview

It is important to understand an overview of the INTENT of the Ten Commandments.

(1) You will have no other small 'g' gods before God. Small 'g' gods can take many forms. Anything you place above your relationship with the ONE AND ONLY large 'G' God can be described as a small 'g' god.

(2) You will not have any idols. Similar to Commandment One, nothing can be worshiped other than God Himself. We may not think of worshiping something else, but our behavior will show it.

(3) Don't take the Lord's name in vain. Contrary to popular belief this DOES NOT mean swearing. If that is your understanding then you diminish the intent of this commandment. The Bible tells us that God places His name on us. (Numbers 6:27) If we live a life contrary to being God's child, THIS IS TAKING THE LORD'S NAME IN VAIN.

(4) Keep the Sabbath. This means that we attempt to have times of rest and solitude with God. We are not Ever Ready Batteries... we do lose energy. As the great Packer Coach Vince Lombardi said, "Fatigue makes cowards of us all."

(5) Honor Mom and Dad. This is the only commandment with the promise of long life. Honoring does not mean we ALWAYS believe or replicate our parents. It means we understand God has placed them in a position of responsibility. We are to honor them, despite their deficiencies. I honor the Office of the President even though I may not agree with the given President.

(6) Don't Murder. This does not include killing in war or in self-defense. The command is NOT "Thou shall not kill." Properly translated, it means "Thou shall not murder."

(7) No adultery. This is not just limited to sexual faithfulness. It means to be faithful in ALL THINGS.

(8) Do not steal... ANYTHING!

(9) Don't lie!

(10) Don't covet! Coveting is wanting something that belongs to someone else. Or, wanting something because someone else has it. This is central to all the other commandments. Notice, ALL the commandments have elements of greed and selfish-power attached to them. Be satisfied with what God has provided you in ALL AREAS of your life. See Philippians 4:11-13...

11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

See you tomorrow!