The Ten Commandments. Even the name carries a weight of authority, doesn’t it? Engraved on stone tablets, delivered by Moses on Mount Sinai amidst thunder, lightning, and the trembling of the mountain (Exodus 19:16-20:21), these divine decrees were more than rules—they were a covenant, a sacred agreement between God and His people.
Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves asking a question that has sparked centuries of theological debate: Should Christians still follow the Ten Commandments? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. Let’s dig deep, explore Scripture, and uncover the heart of the matter.
The Ten Commandments: A Covenant and a Compass
The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) were given to the Israelites after their dramatic exodus from Egypt. These weren’t just guidelines—they were God’s way of shaping a newly freed people into a holy nation.
From “You shall have no other gods before me” to “You shall not covet,” these commandments set boundaries that reflected God’s character and His desire for human flourishing. But they weren’t just about individual morality—they were the terms of a covenant between God and His people.
For centuries, the Israelites struggled to keep these commandments, often failing spectacularly. Their inability to uphold the law highlighted humanity’s deep need for something greater—a Savior.
Jesus and the Law: Fulfillment, Not Abolition
When Jesus came, He didn’t dismiss the Old Testament law. Instead, He fulfilled it. His words make this abundantly clear:
“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.” (Matthew 5:17, NIV)
But what does it mean to fulfill the law? It means that Jesus embodied its purpose. He brought its moral and spiritual truths to life, showing us their fullest expression.
Jesus even summarized the law with two commandments:
- Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.
- Love your neighbor as yourself.
(Matthew 22:37-40)
These weren’t new ideas—they were the essence of the Ten Commandments, reframed for a people living under a new covenant.
Are Christians Bound by the Law?
Paul’s letters shed light on the relationship between Christians and the Mosaic Law. He wrote:
“You are not under the law but under grace.” (Romans 6:14, ESV)
And:
“The law was our guardian until Christ came, that we might be justified by faith.” (Galatians 3:24, NIV)
These verses reveal a profound truth: Christians are no longer bound by the law as a means of salvation. Our relationship with God isn’t based on our ability to follow rules—it’s based on faith in Jesus Christ.
Does that mean the Ten Commandments are irrelevant? Absolutely not. While we aren’t saved by keeping them, they still reflect God’s moral standards.
Timeless Principles for Today
The Ten Commandments aren’t outdated relics; they’re timeless principles that resonate deeply with the teachings of Jesus.
For example:
- “Do not murder” (Exodus 20:13) aligns with Jesus’ call to avoid even anger (Matthew 5:21-22).
- “Do not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14) connects to His teaching on purity of heart (Matthew 5:27-28).
- “Honor your father and mother” (Exodus 20:12) is reinforced by His respect for family relationships (Mark 7:9-13).
However, certain commandments, like observing the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11), have been reinterpreted. Christians now find their true rest not in a specific day but in Christ Himself (Matthew 11:28-30).
How They Guide Us in Modern Life
The principles behind the Ten Commandments still speak powerfully to our lives today:
- “Do not steal” might challenge us to respect intellectual property in the digital age.
- “Do not bear false witness” calls us to truthfulness, even on social media, where misinformation spreads like wildfire.
- “Honor your father and mother” could mean caring for aging parents in a society that often neglects the elderly.
Living out these principles isn’t about legalism—it’s about embodying the love of Christ.
A Story of Transformation
Consider James, a man who used to cut corners at work, spreading half-truths to get ahead. After encountering Christ, James realized the importance of integrity, inspired by the commandment “Do not bear false witness” (Exodus 20:16). Today, he’s known for his honesty, often going out of his way to ensure fairness. His life became a testimony to the transformative power of God’s Word.
Respecting Other Faiths
It’s important to recognize that the Ten Commandments are also revered in Judaism and Islam. This shared heritage can serve as a bridge for interfaith understanding, reflecting Jesus’ call to love all people, regardless of their beliefs.
Living Under Grace, Guided by Love
So, should Christians follow the Ten Commandments? The answer lies in understanding their purpose.
- Yes, because they reveal God’s character and provide a moral compass.
- No, in the sense that salvation comes through faith, not rule-keeping (Ephesians 2:8-9).
The Christian life isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about a relationship with Jesus. As we walk with Him, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out the deeper truths behind the commandments, not out of obligation but out of love.
Final Reflection
The Ten Commandments remind us of God’s holiness, our need for grace, and the transformative power of Christ. They point us to a life that reflects His love, mercy, and truth in every thought, word, and action.
How might living out these principles help you shine Christ’s light in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!