Ten Commandments

At one time, the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. God freed them and brought them into the desert. Then, he gave them his Law, the way he wanted them to live.

In the Law, God gave us rules to live by, the Ten Commandments. The first three commandment talk about respect for God. They are:

1. I am your Lord and God. You will not worship anyone or anything except me.

2. Do not use God's name in a way that shows disrespect.

Jesus said, "The Bible says, 'Do not use God's name to back up your promises.' But, listen to what I say. Don't use God's name in that way at all. Just say 'Yes' or 'No.'"

Based on Matthew 5:33, 37a

3. Keep God's day holy with worship and rest.

Jesus told the leaders, "God created the Sabbath for people, not the other way around."

Based on Mark 2:27

The final seven commandments tell us how to respect other people.

4. Honor your parents.

5. Do not kill.

Jesus said, "You have read that in the Bible. But, listen to what I say. If anyone is angry with another person, they are guilty and will be punished. If you are on your way to worship God and remember someone is angry with you, turn around, go to that person, and apologize. Then, go and pray to God."

Based on Matthew 5:21-22a, 23-24

6. Be faithful in marriage.

Jesus said, "In the Bible You have read 'Be faithful in marriage.' But, listen to what I say. Anyone who even wants to be unfaithful is guilty in his heart."

Based on Matthew 5:27-28

7. Do not steal.

8. Do not lie.

9. Do not desire to take someone away from your neighbor.

10. Do not desire to take something away from your neighbor.

You have read what Jesus had to say about some of the commandments. His comments were clear and can be summed up in one word: respect. We honor God and others in our actions and in our hearts.

Today, the Church uses the Ten Commandments to teach us how to live good lives. The Ten Commandments are for everyone, everywhere. But, the Church also teaches there is something more important than just following God's rules. We must follow Jesus.

One time, a man asked Jesus, "Teacher, what do I have to do so I can receive eternal life?"

Jesus replied, "You know God's commandments: Don't kill. Don't be unfaithful in marriage. Don't steal. Don't lie about others. Don't cheat. Honor your parents."

"But, teacher," the man replied, "I've obeyed all these commandments since I was a young boy."

As he looked at the man, Jesus felt love for him. So, Jesus said, "There is something else you don't have. Leave here, sell everything you own, and give the money you earn to the poor. You will have treasure with God. Then, come and follow me."

Based on Mark 10:17, 19-21