Much is being said these days regarding the Ten Commandments and the display of them in school classrooms and public areas. Pros and cons are running high. Perhaps it might be well for those of us who believe they should NOT be removed from public places, to take a look inside our own hearts regarding the question.

We often hear the words, “I haven’t murdered anyone, committed adultery or robbed a bank” thus making an excuse for being righteous. But what about “False Witness” (gossip) or “Coveting” (wanting what others possess) or “Keeping the Sabbath”.

Then there’s the one, first and foremost “You shall have not other gods before Me.” and “Do not take the Name of God in vain.” How do these fit into our “I Haven’t” statement?

Jesus summed up all 10 when he said “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind… and your neighbor as yourself.” That means putting God in first place in every area of our life – and being mindful of the needs of others, whether people on our street or hungry, needy people in other parts of our world.

The 10 commandments are an all-inclusive portrayal of what God planned for mankind way back in the days of Moses and is just as needful for us today. He knew our weaknesses and what we needed to keep us out of trouble.

Reference is not made in this matter to indicate, that because we do not keep these laws as we should, they don’t need to be displayed as a constant reminder. God knows the rules that mankind needs to keep him happy, whole, contented and blest. Let’s take a look inside to see how each of us is doing. Discipline always has it’s rewards.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Exodus 20:1-17

These commandments are at the heart of God’s moral law for all mankind.

1. You shall have no other gods before Me.

2. You shall not make any carved image.

3. You shall not take the name of God in vain.

4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy

5. Honor your father and your mother.

6. Do not commit murder

7. Do not commit adultery.

8. Do not Steal.

9. Do not bear false witness

10. Do not covet.

The first four commandments tell man’s duty to God; the last six his responsibilities to his fellowman. The Lord Jesus summarized these two divisions of the Law 1,500 years later when He said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt.22:37,39).