FAQs Mondays: "What Do the First Four Commandment?"

Last week, we looked at the nature of the 10 Commandments. You can read that article here. Now we will look at the first four commandments and ask, "What do the first four commandments teach?"

What is the first commandment?

The first commandment is, "You shall have no other gods before me."

What does the first commandment teach us?

To worship God only.

What is the second commandment?

The second commandment is, "You shall not make for yourself an idol, nor worship, nor serve it."

What does the second commandment teach us?

To worship God in the right way and to avoid idolatry.

What is the third commandment?

The third commandment is, "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God."

What does the third commandment teach us?

To respect God's name, Word and works.

What is the fourth commandment?

The fourth commandment is, "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy."

What does the fourth commandment teach us?

To Keep the Sabbath Holy.

What day of the week is the Christian Sabbath?

The first day of the week, called the Lord's Day.

Why is it called the Lord's Day?

Because by rising from the dead on that day Christ made it his own.

How should the Lord's Day be kept?

In resting from our work, in prayer and praise, in hearing and reading God's Word, and in doing good to others.

The first four commandments give us the guidelines for how we are to relate to God. He alone is worthy of our worship. His name is to be respected. Although there is some debate as to how a Christian should approach the "Sabbath," this catechism offers some sound advice. We should set aside the Lord's Day as a time of worship and study.

Next week, we will seek to answer the question, "What do last six commandments teach?" Feel free to leave a comment.