FAQs Mondays: What Are the Attributes of God? part 2

Last week, we began our look at the attributes of God. We started by looking at the eternity and unchangingness of God. You can read that post here.

This week, we turn our attention to the omnipotence and independence of God.

What is the meaning of omnipotence?

 All-powerful.

Does the Lord declare Himself to be possessed of infinite power?

He does. "I am God Almighty. Live in my presence and be blameless" (Gen. 17:1, HCSB). See also Job 26:14; Dan. 4:35; Rev. 19:6. Note: All quotations have been updated to the HCSB.

Can you mention a striking exhibition of His power? 

"Oh, Lord God! You Yourself made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched are. Nothing is to difficult for you" (Jer. 32:17). See also Jer. 10:12; Isa. 11:26.

Does not God sustain and govern all things?

He does. He is "sustaining all things by his powerful word" (Heb. 1:3). "our Lord God, the Almighty, has begun to reign" (Rev. 19:6).

Does not this require unlimited power? 

It does.

Is the mind of man, as well as his body, subject to the power and control of God?

It is. "The king's heart is like streams of water in the Lord's hand: He directs it wherever he chooses" (Prov. 21:1). See also Rom. 9:21.

Is it to the power of the Lord that the uniform operations of nature are to be attributed?

lt is. "Who covers the the sky with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, and cause grass to grow on the hills" (Ps. 147:8). "I for light and create darkness, I make success and create disaster, I, Yahweh, do all these things" (Isa. 45:7).

Is not His power concerned in every event that transpires, even the most minute and apparently unimportant?

It is. "The lot is cast in the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord" (Prov. 16:33). "Aren't two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father's consent" (Matt. 10:29).

Must He not, if possessed of such power, be independent of all other beings?

He is. He "works out everything in agreement with the decisions of His will" (Eph. 1:11). "There is no one who can hold back His hand or say to Him, 'What have you done?'" (Dan. 4:35).

If God is perfectly independent, can any other being in the universe be so?

It is impossible. "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen" (Rom. 11:36).

Is it possible for us, or even an angel in heaven., to gain an adequate conception of this powerful and independent God? 

It is not. "The Almighty--we cannot reach Him--He is exalted in power!"(Job 37:23). "His greatness is unsearchable" (Ps. 145:3).

Since you are wholly in the power of this Almighty being, have you reason to fear or rejoice, judging from your present character and condition?

The learner is again asked to respond to the lesson. Since these things are true, they demand a response. They are tools shaping the heart, moving it toward faith. As the student learns to think about God as independent and omnipotent, he must choose whether or not to trust.

And what about you? Does knowing you are in the hands of the Almighty God make you fear or rejoice? I would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to leave a comment. We will continue to look at God's attributes next week.

FAQs Mondays: What Do We Pray for in the Sixth Petition of the Lord's Prayer

Last week, we looked at the fifth petition of the Lord's Prayer. You can read that article here.  Now we turn our attention to sixth, and final, petition of the Lord's Prayer.

What do we pray for in the sixth petition of the Lord's Prayer?

In the sixth petition, which is, "And lead us not into temptation, but delivered us from the evil one" (Matt. 6:13), we pray that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin, or support and deliver us when we are tempted.  Jesus said to his disciples, "Stay awake and pray, so that you won't enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matt. 26:41, HCSB).  Psalm 19:13 states, "Moreover, keep Your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule over me.  Then I will be innocent and cleansed from blatant rebellion."  Paul states, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity.  God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it" (1 Cor. 10:13, HCSB). John 17:15 states, "I [Jesus] am not praying that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one."

Summary

The final petition of the Lord's Prayer is a prayer for protection.  We live in a world that is under the curse of sin, and under the sway of the evil one.  However, Jesus is making all things new, and God the Father is bringing all things under Jesus' feet.  While we live in this world, for the glory of God, we will face opposition.  We are to look to our heavenly Father for protection from the evil one.

This article not only concludes our study on prayer, but also our walk through the Baptist Catechism. Are there questions you have that you would like me to answer?  Send me a message or leave a comment, and you might find your question the subject of future FAQs Mondays.

FAQs Mondays: What Do We Pray for in the Fifth Petition of the Lord's Prayer

Last week, we focused on the fourth petition of the Lord's Prayer. You can read that article here. This week, we are looking at the fifth petition.

What do we pray for in the fifth petition of the Lord's Prayer?

In the fifth petition, which is, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matt. 6:12), we pray that God, for Christ's sake, would freely pardon all our sins; which we are rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others.  Jesus warned, "So My heavenly Father will also do to you if each of you does not forgive his brothers from his heart" (Matt. 18:35, HCSB).  Mark 11:25 states, "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven will also forgive you your wrongdoing." David states,

Be gracious to me, God, according to your faithful love; according to your abundant compassion, blot out my rebellion. . . . For I am conscious of my rebellion, and my sin is always before me. . . . Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:1, 3, 7, HCSB).

Summary

The fifth petition is for forgiveness.  Through this petition, we seek the grace to extend the forgiveness to others that we so desperately seek for ourselves.  This request reminds us of the reality that it is impossible receive the forgiveness of God, and not extend forgiveness to others.  God's forgiveness transforms the heart so that it gives as freely as it gets.  Next week, we answer the question, "What do we pray for in the sixth petition of the Lord's Prayer?".

FAQs Mondays: What Do We Pray for in the First Petition of the Lord's Prayer?

Last week, we answered the question, "What does the opening of the Lord's Prayer teach us?".  You can read that post here.  This week we want to continue looking at the Lord's Prayer.

What do we pray for in the first petition of the Lord's Prayer?

In the first petition, which is "Hallowed be your name," we pray that God would enable us and others to glorify him in all of life, and that he would dispose all things to his own glory.  Paul tells us, "For from him [God] and through him and to him are all things.  To him be glory forever. Amen" (Rom. 11:36).  He also reminds us, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31).  Revelation 4:11 states, "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created."  Hear the words of Psalm 67:1-3:

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, (Selah) that your way may be know on earth, your saving power among all nations.  Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!

Summary

The first petition, or request, of the Lord's Prayer is that God would enable us and others to bring him glory.  We approach with a childlike confidence in our heavenly Father's love, and we ask him to make his glory known through us.  We want the world to know how great our Father in heaven truly is.  Next week, we will answer the question, "What do we pray for in the second petition of the Lord's Prayer?".

FAQs Mondays: What Does the Opening of the Lord's Prayer Teach Us?

Last week, we continued our look at prayer by asking the question, "How Do We Learn to Pray?".  You can read that post here.  Scripture teaches us to pray, especially through the Lord's Prayer.  This week, we begin to look at the Lord's Prayer by asking, "What does the opening of the Lord's Prayer teach us?".

What does the preface of the Lord's Prayer teach us?

The preface of the Lord's Prayer, which is, "Our Father, who is in heaven," teaches us to draw near to God, with holy reverence and confidence, as children to the father, able and read to help us, and that we should pray with and for others.  The Lord's Prayer is found in Matthew 6:9-13.  Jesus reminded us, "If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to the those who ask him!" (Luke 11:13).  Paul said, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoptions as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" (Rom. 8:15).  Acts 12:5 says, "So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church."  First Timothy 2:1-2 states, "First of all, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings, and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."

Summary

The opening of the Lord's Prayer teaches us that we need to approach God as a child approaches their father.  It also teaches us that we need to approach our Father with holy reverence and confidence.  It Farther teaches us that we may (and must) approach him with our cares and concerns for others.  Next week, we will answer the question, "What do we pray for in the first petition of the Lord's Prayer?"

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 4

Last week, we explored the meaning of baptism in part 3 of our look at the ways in which God reveals the benefits to redemption.  You can view that post here.  This week, we take a closer look at the Lord's Supper.

What is the Lord's Supper?

The Lord's Supper is a holy ordinance of the church.  By eating bread and drinking the cup according to Christ's appointment we who forth his death.  Those who eat and drink in a worthy manner partake of the Christ's body and blood, not physically, but spiritually in that by faith they are nourished with the benefits he purchased, and grow in grace.  Paul asks, "The cup of blessing that we bless, is is not a participation in the blood of Christ?  The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? (1 Cor. 10:6).   He also says,

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night hew was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you.  Do this in remembrance of me."  In the same way he also took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood.  Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."  For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes (1 Cor. 11:23-26).

Who are the proper subjects of the ordinance?

Those who have been baptized upon a personal profession of their faith in Jesus Christ and repentance from dead works.  Acts 2:42 states, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."

What is required to the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper?

It is required of those who would worthily (that is, suitably) partake of the Lord's Supper, that they examine themselves--of their knowledge, that they may discern the Lord's body; their faith, that they feed upon him; and their repentance, love and new obedience; lest coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to themselves.  Paul states,

Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord.  Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.  For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the the body eats and drinks judgment on himself (1 Cor. 11:27-29). 

Paul also states, "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith.  Test yourselves.  Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?--unless indeed you fail to meet the test!" (2 Cor. 13:5).

Summary

This week, we have learned about the Lord's Supper.  Only the saved and baptized should partake of the Lord's supper.  It is a memorial that looks back at Christ's atoning sacrifice, and a look to the future when Christ returns to claim his own.  Next week, we look at the last way God communicates the benefits of redemption to his people.  We will try to answer the question, "What is prayer?"

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 3.

Last week, we have learned that Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective for salvation through the blessing of Christ and the working of the Spirit upon those who receive them in faith.  These ordinances are different than the other ordinances, because they were instituted by Christ to function as visible and outward signs of the new covenant. You can view that post here.  This week, we will look at Baptism in greater detail.

 What is baptism?

Baptism is a holy ordinance, in which immersion in the water in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, signifies our being joined to Christ and our sharing the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord's.  Jesus said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 28:19).  Paul said,

"Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?  We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.  For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly by united with him in a resurrection like his (Rom. 6:3-5).

 Again of baptism, Paul states, "Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead" (Col. 2:12).  We are also reminded, "For as many of you were baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Gal. 3:27).

To whom is baptism to be administered?

Baptism is to be administered to all those who actually profess repentance towards God, faith in and obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ; and to no other.  Acts 2:38 states, "And Peter said to them, 'Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."  Acts 8:12 states, "But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women."  Again we are told, "'Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people [Cornelius and those in his household who believed], who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?'  And he [Peter] commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.  Then they asked him to remain for some days" (Acts 10:47-48).   Sinners went out to John the Baptist, "and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins" (Matt. 3:6).

Are the infants of professing believers to be baptized?

The infants of believers are not to be baptized; because there is neither command nor example in the Holy Scriptures, nor implication from them to baptize such.  But baptism is made an expression of faith.  Peter said, "Baptism, which corresponds to this [the ark], now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 3:21, see also Col. 2:12 and Gal. 3:26-27).

How is baptism rightly administered?

Baptism  is rightly administered by immersion, or dipping the whole body of the person in water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Spirit according to Christ's institution, and the practice of the apostles, and not by sprinkling or pouring of water, or dipping some part of the body, after the tradition of men.  Of Jesus' baptism it states, "And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him" (Matt. 3:16).  We are told, "John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there; and people were coming and being baptized" (John 2:23; see also John 4:1-2).  Acts 8:38 states, "And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized  him."

What is the duty of those who are rightly baptized?

It is the duty of those who are rightly baptized to give themselves to some visible and orderly church of Jesus Christ, that they may walk in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.  Acts 2:46-47 states, "And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people.  And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved."  Peter said, "You yourselves like living stones are being built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 2:5).  The author of Hebrews said, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near" (Heb. 10:24-25).

What it the visible church?

The visible church is the organized society of professing believers, in all ages and places, wherein the gospel is truly preached and the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper administered in true faith.  Acts 2:42 describes the early church in these terms, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, the breaking of bread and the prayers."  Acts 20:7 states, "On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart on the next day, and he prolonged his speech until midnight."  Paul states, "And he [Jesus] gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" (Eph. 4:11-12).

What is the invisible church?

The invisible church is the who number of the elect that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head.  Jesus said, "And I have other sheep that are not of this fold.  I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.  So there will be one flock, one shepherd" (John 10:16).  John recorded, "He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad" (John 11:51-52).  Paul said God revealed the mystery of the gospel, "As a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth" (Eph. 1:10).  He also said, "And he put all things under his [Christ's] feet and gave him as head over all thing to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all" (Eph. 1:22-23). 

Summary

This week, we learned that baptism is the ordinance whereby a believer is immersed in water as a symbol of their union with Christ in his death and resurrection.  It is done in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.  Baptism signifies a person's commitment to walk in continual obedience to Jesus Christ, their Lord and Savior.  It is a prerequisite to membership in the visible church (a local congregation), and a mark of belonging to the invisible church (all of God's children, from every age).  Next week, we turn our attention to the Lord's Supper, as we seek to answer the question: "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?" Part 4.

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 2

Last week we began looking at the outward and ordinary means through which the benefits of redemption are communicated to us.  We focused on the first one, the Word.  You can view that post here. This week, we'll start to look at Baptism and the Lord's supper for the second part of our question, "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?"

 How do Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective means of salvation?

Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective means of salvation, not from any virtue in them or in him that administers them, but only by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit in those who by faith receive them.  Peter states, "Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 3:21).  Paul states, "For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--Jews or Greeks, slaves or free--and all were made to drink of one Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:13).  He also said, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.  So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth" (1 Cor. 3:6-7).

How do Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God?

Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God in that they were specially instituted by Christ to represent and apply to believers the benefits of the new covenant by visible and outward signs.  Jesus commanded, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:19-20).  Matthew also records,

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matt. 26:26-28).

Ananias said to Paul, "And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name" (Acts 22:16).  Of baptism, Paul stated, "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life" (Rom. 6:4).

Summary

We have learned that Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective for salvation through the blessing of Christ and the working of the Spirit upon those who receive them in faith.  These ordinances are different than the other ordinances, because they were instituted by Christ to function as visible and outward signs of the new covenant.  We will look at Baptism in greater detail next week in part 3.

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 1

Last week, we answered the question, "How does a sinner escape the wrath of God?"  You can read that post here.  We were reminded that "To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life, with the diligent use of all the outward and ordinary means where by Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption."  Last week's post focused on faith and repentance.  This week's post begin a short series of posts that deal with the outward and ordinary means that God uses to show us Christ.  So this week we begin to answer the question, "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?"

What are the outward and ordinary means by which Christ communicates to us the benefits of Redemption?

The outward and ordinary means by which Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are his ordinances, especially the Word, Baptism, the Lord's Supper and Prayer; all of which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.  Acts 2:41-42 tells us, "So those who received his word were baptized, and there was added that day about three thousand souls.  And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." Paul explains, "So faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Rom. 10:17).  James explains, "Of his own will he [God] brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creation" (Jam. 1:18).

How is the Word made effective for salvation?

The Spirit of God makes the reading, but especially the preaching of the Word, an effectual means of convincing sinners, and of building them up in holiness and comfort, through faith unto salvation.  The David informs, "The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony the LORD is sure, making wise the simple" (Ps. 19:7).  The Psalmist states, "I have stored your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. . . . Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law" (Ps. 119: 11, 18).  Paul states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greeks" (Rom. 1:16).  Again Paul states, "And you became imitators of us, and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit" (1 Thes. 1:6).  Peter says, "So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.  Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up to salvation" (1 Pet. 2:1-2).

How is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effective for salvation?

That the Word may become effective for salvation we must attend to it with diligence, preparation and prayer, receive it in faith and love, lay it up in our hearts and practice it in our lives.  Wisdom says, "Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors" (Prov. 8:34). Paul states, "Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching" (1 Tim. 4:13).  The author of Hebrews states, "Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. . . . How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard" (Heb. 2:1, 3).  He also says, "For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened" (Heb. 4:2).  James commands, "Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls" (Jam. 1:21).

Summary

This week we began looking at the outward and ordinary means through which the benefits of redemption are communicated to us.  We focused on the first one, the Word.  Next week, we'll start to look at Baptism and the Lord's supper for the second part of our question, "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?"

FAQs Mondays: How Does a Sinner Escape the Wrath of God?

Last week, we answered the question, "What happens if we can't keep the commandments?." You can view that post here.  This week we answer the question, "How does a sinner escape the wrath of God?"

What does God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to us for sin?

To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life, with the diligent use of all the outward and ordinary means where by Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption.  Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that he went from house to house, "testifying both to Jews and Greeks of repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:21).  When asked how one is saved, Paul and Silas replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household" (Acts 16:31).  Elsewhere Paul states, "The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30).

What is faith in Christ?

Faith in Jesus Christ is saving grace, whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, trusting him to forgive our sins, and guide us to eternal joy on the basis of his divine power and atoning death.  Jesus said, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst" (John 6:35).  John states, "but to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12).    Paul said that he endured whatever came his way so that he could gain Christ "and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes form the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith" (Phil. 3:9).  He also said,

We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified (Gal. 2:15-16).

Hebrews 10:39 states, "But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls."

What is repentance unto life?

Repentance unto life is a saving grace, by which a sinner, out of a true sense of his sin, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ, does with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it to God with full purpose of, and endeavor after, new obedience.  The Lord described repentance in this way, " and rend your hearts and not your garments.  Return to the LORD, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love" (Joel 2:13).  Acts 2:37 says, "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"  Paul states, "and, [you] having been set free from sin, have become slaves to righteousness" (Rom. 6:18).  Paul reminds,

For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.  For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what punishment!  At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter (2 Cor. 7:10-11).

Summary

So we have learned that in order to escape sin, God requires that we turn away from sin and place our faith in Christ.  In addition, we learned how to define faith and repentance.  We also saw that God has appointed means to communicate the benefits of redemption to us.  Next week, we will answer the question, "How does God reveal  the benefits of redemption?"

FAQs Mondays: What Happens If We Can't Keep the Commandments?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the tenth commandment?".  You can read that post here. This week, we turn our attention to the question, "What happens if we can't keep the commandments?".

Is any man able to keep the commands of God perfectly?

No mere man, since the fall, is able in this life, to keep the commands of God perfectly, but daily falls short of inward and outward perfection.  Solomon said, "Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins" (Ecc. 7:20). Genesis 6:5 states, "The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually" (See also: Gen. 8:21).   John states, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8). James says, "For we all stumble in many ways, and if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole mouth. . . . but no human being can tame his the tongue.  It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison" (Jam. 3:2-8).  Paul states, "Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own" (Phil. 3:12, see also Rom. 7:15).  He also reminds us, "For all  have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23). 

What then is the purpose of the law since the fall?

The purpose of the law, since the fall, is to reveal the perfect righteousness of God, that his people may know the path of faith that leads to life, and that the ungodly may be convicted of their sin, restrained from evil, and brought to Christ for salvation.  Paul teaches, "For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin" (Rom. 3:20, see also Rom. 7:7).  Again he instructs, "But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. . . . So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith" (Gal. 3:22-24). Further Scriptures for meditation: Psalm 19:7-11; Luke 10:25-28, and Titus 2:12-14.

Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous?

Some sins in themselves and by reason of several aggravations are more heinous in the sight of God than others.   Ezekiel reports, "He [the LORD] said also to me, 'You will see still greater abominations that they commit" (Ezk. 8:13).  The Scriptures say, "Jesus said to him [Pilate], 'You would have no authority over me at all unless it had bee given you from above.  Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin'" (John 19:11).  John states, "If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life--to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that" (1 John 5:16).

What does every sin deserve?

Every sin deserves God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and in that which is to come.   Paul states, "Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God come upon the sons of disobedience" (Eph. 5:6).  Paul also says, "For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written: 'Cursed by everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them'" (Gal. 3:10).  Solomon says, "The Lord's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous" (Prov. 3:33).   David cried, "Let him [the LORD] rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup" (Psalm 11:6).  John writes, "But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murders, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death" (Rev. 21:8).

Summary

What happens if we can't keep the commandments?  We come under God's wrath and curse.  This condemnation is just and right.  God as the holy sovereign would have to deny his own nature if he did not judge sin.  The reality is that even if we were to try real hard we could never stop sinning.  We are born into this world with a nature that is bent away from God.  This bend in our natures leaves us chasing after everything but God.  The commandments show us what God is like, what he desires from us, and how far away from him we truly are.

Since we know that no one (besides Jesus) can avoid sinning and everyone who sins is under God's wrath, we must ask an important follow up question.  How does a sinner escape the wrath of God?  This question will be the focus of next weeks post.


Unless otherwise stated all Scripture references are from the English Standard Version (ESV).

FAQs Mondays: What Is the Tenth Commandment?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the ninth commandment?". You can read that post here.  This week, we turn our attention to the final commandment, and we ask, "What is the tenth commandment?"

Which is the tenth commandment?

The tenth commandment is, "You shall not covet they neighbor's house.  You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant, or his maid servant, his oxen or his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor" (Ex. 20:17).

What is required by the tenth commandment?

The tenth commandment requires contentment with our own condition, with a right and charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbor, and all that is his.  Leviticus 19:18 states, "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but your shall love your neighbor as yourself.  I am the LORD."  Hebrews 13:5 states, "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"  Paul said, "Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment" (1 Tim. 6:6).  He also said, "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep" (Rom. 12:15).  Again he reminds,

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.  It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.  Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things (1 Cor. 13:4-7).

What is forbidden by the tenth commandment?

The tenth commandment forbids all murmuring over our own condition and all envying or grieving at the good of our neighbor, and all inordinate affections for anything that is his.  Paul commands, "Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another" (Gal. 5:26).  He again he suggests, "Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry" (Col. 3:5).  James 5:9 states, "Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door."

Summary

So we see that the tenth commandment is a warning to be content with the things that God has given to us.  Next week, we answer the question, "What happens if we can't keep the commandments?".

FAQs Mondays: What Is the Ninth Commandment?

Last week we answered the question, "What is the eighth commandment?".  You can read that post here.  This week, we answer the question, "What is the ninth commandment?".

Which is the ninth commandment?

The ninth commandment is, "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor" (Ex. 20:16).

What is require in the ninth commandment?

The ninth commandment requires that we maintain and promote truth between persons and that we preserve the good name of our neighbor and ourselves.  The Lord says, "These are the things that you shall do: Speak the truth to one another; render in your gates judgments that are true and make for peace; do not devise evil in your hearts against one another, and love no false oath, for all these things I hate, declares the LORD" (Zech 8:16-17, ESV).  Proverbs says, "A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies" (Prov. 14:5, ESV).  Again it says, "A truthful witness saves lives, but one who breathes out lies is deceitful" (Prov. 14:25, ESV).  Solomon says, "A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death than the day of birth" (Eccl. 7:1). 

What is forbidden in the ninth commandment?

The ninth commandment forbids whatever dishonors truth, or injures our own, or our neighbor's good name.  Paul reminds, "Therefore, have put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another" (Eph. 4:25, ESV).  Again Paul states, "We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us, for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man" (2 Cor. 8:20-21, ESV).  David warns that only he "Who does not slander with his tongue and does not evil to his neighbor, not takes up a reproach against his friend," is able to dwell in the Lord's presence (Ps. 15:1-3, ESV).

Summary

Therefore we come to understand that the ninth commandment is about honoring truth.  Truth is a characteristic born out of God's nature.  Thus, it must be respected and preserved so that by speaking the truth we reflect God's glory to the world.  When a person lies, he speaks the language of the devil, because the devil is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44).  As believers in Christ, let us be done with lying, and instead let us magnify the truth. 

Next week, we finish our look at the Ten Commandments by asking, "What is the tenth commandment?".  From there, we will move on the the remainder of the Baptist Catechism.

FAQs Mondays: What is the Eighth Commandment?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the seventh commandment."  You can view that post here.  This week we turn our attention to the question, "What is the eighth commandment?".

Which is the eight commandment?

The eighth commandment is, "You shall not steal" (Ex. 20:15).

What is required in the eight commandment?

The eight commandment requires that we pursue lawful and useful work to provide for our needs and for those unable to provide for themselves.  Deuteronomy 15:10 states, "You shall give to him [the poor] freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake." Leviticus states, "If your brother becomes poor and cannot maintain himself with you, you shall support him as though he were a stranger and a sojourner, and he shall live with you" (Lev. 25:35).  Paul states, "Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need" (Eph. 4:28).

What is forbidden in the eight commandment?

The eight commandment forbids whatever would unjustly withhold or diminish a person's possessions or attainments.  Romans 13:7 states, "Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed."  The Lord said, "Will a man rob God? Yet you are robbing me.  But you say, 'How have we robbed you?' In your tithes and contributions" (Mal. 3:8).

Summary

The eight commandment expressly forbids taking, in an unlawful manner, what rightly belongs to another.  Yet it implies much more.  The eight commandment requires that we work diligently, give generously, and protect the poor.  Next week, we turn our attention to answering the question, "What is the ninth commandment?".

FAQs Mondays: What is the Seventh Commandment?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the sixth commandment?".  You can read that post here.  Now we turn our attention to answering the question, "What is the seventh commandment?".

Which is the seventh commandment?

The seventh commandment is, "You shall not commit adultery" (Ex. 20:14).

What is required in the seventh commandment?

The seventh commandment requires that we preserve our own and our neighbor's chastity in heart, speech, and behavior.  Paul states, "Flee from sexual immorality.  Every other sin a person commits is outside of the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body" (1 Cor. 6:18, ESV).  Later he states, "But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband" (1 Cor. 7:2, ESV).  Paul told Timothy, "Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with all those who call on the Lord from a pure heart" (2 Tim. 2:22, ESV). 

What is forbidden in the seventh commandment?

The seventh commandment forbids all unchaste thoughts, words, and actions.  Jesus said,

You have heard it said, "You shall not commit adultery." But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.  If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown in hell.  And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away.  For it is better that yo lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell (Matt 5:28-32, ESV).

Job said, "I have made a covenant with my eyes; how then could I gaze at a virgin?" (Job 31:1, ESV).  Paul urges, "Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy" (Rom. 13:13, ESV).  Elsewhere, Paul states, "But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among the saints.  Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which is out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving" (Eph. 5:3-4, ESV).

Summary

We have seen that the seventh commandment is designed to protect marriage.  Although the command only expressly forbids adulterous relationships, it extends far beyond the physical act alone.  The command to marital fidelity is designed to express God's covenant faithfulness to his people, as well as protect society for collapse.  Next week, we answer the question, "What is the eighth commandment?".

FAQs Monday: What is the Sixth Commandment?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the fifth commandment?".  You can read that post here.  This week, we continue our look at the Ten Commandments by looking at the sixth commandment.

Which is the sixth commandment?

The sixth commandment is, "You shall not murder" (Ex. 20:13).

What is required in the sixth commandment?

The sixth commandment requires all lawful efforts to preserve our own life and the life of others.  In the Psalms, we are called to "Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.  Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked" (Ps. 82:3-4, ESV).  Solomon warns,

Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter.  If you say, "Behold, we did not know this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?  Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it, and will he not repay man according to his work? (Prov. 24:11-12, ESV).

We should be mindful that other Scriptures imply that suicide is wrong (see Acts 16:28; Eph. 5:29-30).

What is forbidden in the sixth commandment?

The sixth commandment forbids the taking of our own life, or the life of our neighbor unjustly, including whatever acts tend to this loss.  In his confrontation with Cain, the first murderer, God states, "What have you done? The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand" (Gen. 4:10-11, ESV).  The Lord said to Noah, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image" (Gen. 9:6, ESV).  Jesus said,

You have heard that it was said to those of old, "You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment." But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, "You fool!" will be liable to the hell of fire.  So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave you gift there before the altar and go.  First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.  Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put into prison.  Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny (Matt. 5:21-26, ESV).

Summary

The sixth commandment is against murder, the unlawful taking of life.  Human life is sacred, and should be treated with the utmost dignity.  Human life; therefore, should be prized, and every effort should be taken to preserve it.  Next week, we answer the question, "What is the seventh commandment?".

FAQs Mondays: What is the Fourth Commandment?

Last week, we looked at the third commandment.  You can read that post here.  This week, we will seek to answer the question, "What is the fourth commandment?".

Which is the fourth commandment?

The fourth commandment is, "Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.  Six days shall you labor and do all your work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates: for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested the seventh day.  Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy" (Ex.20:8-11).

What is required in the fourth commandment?

The fourth commandment requires the keeping holy to God such set times as he has appointed in his word, expressly one whole day in seven to be a holy Sabbath to himself.  The Lord says, "You shall keep my Sabbaths and reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD" (Lev. 19:30).  Moses said, "Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you" (Deut. 5:12).

Which day of the seven has God appointed to be the weekly Sabbath?

From the creation of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath.  In Genesis 2:3 we read, "So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation."  Although no New Testament passage explicitly describes the transition between the seventh day Sabbath and the first day Lord's Day, it is clear that this pattern emerged within the Church.  John tells us that it was on the first day of the week that Jesus first appeared to his disciples after his resurrection (John 20:19).  Luke tells us that the church was gathered on the first day of the week to break bread together, that is, to celebrate the Lord's Supper (Acts 20:7).  Celebrating the Lord's Supper was part of corporate worship. Paul mentions setting aside money on the first day of the week for a special collection for the saints in Jerusalem (1 Cor. 16:1-2).  This implies that churches were worshiping on the first day of the week.  In the book of Revelation, we find John worshiping in the Spirit on the "Lord's Day," (i.e. Sunday, see Rev. 1:10). 

How is the Sabbath sanctified?

One day in seven should be especially devoted to corporate worship and other spiritual exercises that restore the soul's rest in God and zeal for His name.  It should provide physical refreshment and fit one for a week of devoted service to Christ.  The Lord compels his people,

If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the Lord honorable; if you honor it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly; then you shall take delight in the LORD, and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth; I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken (Isa. 58:13-14).  

Paul states, "One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all day alike.  Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.  The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord.  The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God" (Rom. 14:5-6).  In Matthew 12:1-14, Jesus explains the how we should understand the Sabbath regulations.  The regulations should not be seen as something to bind us, but as a blessing.  Elsewhere Jesus explains, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for Sabbath" (Mark 2:27).

What is prohibited in the fourth commandment?

The fourth commandment prohibits dishonoring the Lord's Day by actions or thoughts that divert the soul from spiritual refreshment, or deprive the body of renewed energy or distract the mind from its special Sabbath focus on the Lord.  The Scripture is clear that the Lord's Day is to be a day of worship and rest.  Consider these verses: Ezekiel 22:26, 23:38; Jeremiah 17:21; Nehemiah 13:15-17; Acts 20:7; Mark 2:23-28; and Romans 14:5-6.

What are the reasons attached to the fourth commandment?

The reasons attached to the fourth commandment are, God's creating the world in six days and resting on the seventh and his blessing the Sabbath day.  Exodus 31:16-17 states, "Therefore the people of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, observing the Sabbath throughout their generations, as a covenant forever.  It is a sign forever between me and the people of Israel that in six days the LORD made the heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed."  See also, Genesis 2:2-3 and Exodus 20:9-11.

Summary

The fourth commandment calls us to set aside one day in seven, for corporate worship and personal rest. In honor of the resurrection, Christians observe the Lord's Day, Sunday, as their day of worship and rest.  It should be a day of spiritual and physical renewal.

Next week, we tackle the question: "What is the fifth commandment?"

FAQs Mondays: What is the Second Commandment?

Last week, we answered the question, "What is the first commandment?".  You can read that post here.  This week we will be answering the question, "What is the second commandment?".  The first commandment stated that we are not to worship or serve any other gods.  There is only one true God, he alone is to be worshiped and served.  The second commandment builds off the first.

Which is the second commandment?

The second commandment is, "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.  You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and forth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand [generations] of those who love me and keep my commandments" (Ex. 20:4-6).

What is required by the second commandment?

The second commandment requires the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances, as God has appointed in his Word.  The Lord states, "Everything that I command you, you shall be careful to do.  You shall not add to it or take from it" (Deut. 12:32, ESV).  Moses warned, "Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to you children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law" (Deut. 32:46, ESV).  Jesus commanded his apostles, "Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you.  And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:20, ESV).

What is forbidden by the second commandment?

The second commandment forbids the worship of God by images, or any other way that draws the heart away from his glory rather than towards his glory.  Paul warns, "Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immoral God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles" (Rom. 1:22-23, ESV).  Moses stated, "Therefore watch yourselves very carefully.  Since you saw no form on the day that the LORD spoke to you at Horeb out of the midst of the fire, beware lest you act corruptly by making carved images for yourself, in the form of any figure, the likeness of male or female" (Deut. 4:15-16, ESV; see also Col. 2:18).  Paul urges, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31, ESV; see also Col. 3:17).

What are the reasons added to the second commandment?

The reasons added to the second commandment are God's holy jealousy for his name, and the zeal he has for his own worship. Paul said, "No, I imply that what pagans sacrifice they offer to demons and not to God.  I don not want you to be participants with demons.  You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons.  You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons.  Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy?  Are we stronger than he?" (1 Cor. 10:20-22, ESV).  The Lord commanded the Israelites to destroy all the worship sites in the promise land, "For you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God" (Ex. 34:14, ESV).

Summary

The second commandment forbids the worship of God through the use of images (carved or imagined), and informs us that God is deeply concerned about the substance and form of worship.  That is to say, God cares about how we worship.  Next week, we will answer the question, "What is the third commandment?".

FAQs Monday: How Do the Ten Commandments Begin?

Last week, we answered the question: "Where can we find a summary of the moral law?".  This week, we will begin an in-depth look at that summary, the Ten Commandments.  We'll start by looking at the preface.

What is the preface to the Ten Commandments?

The preface to the Ten Commandments is, "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage" (Exod. 20:2).

 What does the preface of the Ten Commandments teach us?

 The preface of the Ten Commandments teaches us because God is the LORD, and our gracious Redeemer, his commands are for our good and he does not will for us to depend on ourselves in keeping them, but to trust his grace and power.  It is written,

And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good? . . .  Circumcise therefore the foreskin of you heart, and be no longer stubborn" (Deut. 10:12-13, 16).

Deuteronomy 30:6 states, "And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live."

Summary

The preface of the Ten Commandments reminds us that the Lord our God has delivered us from bondage.  By his grace he delivers his people from bondage, both physical and spiritual.  These commandments are not meant to enslave his people, but to liberate them to live in a way that pleases him.  Next week, we will answer the question: "What is the first commandment?".

FAQs Mondays: Where Can We Find a Summary of the Moral Law?

Last week, we answered the question, "What does God require of man?".  Ultimately, we concluded that God requires that man respond to the moral law with an obedience that comes from faith.  The moral law it the obedience of faith.  This week, we will seek to answer the question, "Where can we find a summary of the moral law?".

Where is the obedience of faith given in summary form?

A summary form of the obedience of faith is given in the Ten Commandments.  Exodus 34:28 explains, "So he [Moses] was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights.  He neither ate bread nor drank water.  And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments" (see also Deut. 10:4).  The author of Hebrews states, "And to whom did he [God] swear that they would not enter his rest, but to those who were disobedient?  So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief" (Heb. 3:18-19, see also Heb. 4:2).  The generation of Israelites who rejected the Word of God perished in the wilderness, because they refused to believe God's Word, and thus, disobeyed him.   Concerning the reason the Jews were unable to attain righteousness, Paul states, "Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were by works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone" (Rom. 9:32).

What is the sum of the Ten Commandments?

The sum of the Ten Commandments is to love the Lord our God, with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and to love our neighbors as ourselves.  When asked which is the most important command, Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.  And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'  The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself'"(Mark 12:29-31, see also Matt. 22:36-40).

Summary

The moral law is summed up in the Ten Commandments.  The Ten Commandments can be summed up by the Great Commandments: "Love God and love your neighbor."  God requires more from humanity than simple obedience to the moral law.  In order to please God, and be counted righteous, we must first trust him, and out of that trust, we must obey him.

Now that we know where we can find a summary form of the moral law, we will spend the next several weeks looking at the Ten Commandments.  Focusing on each of the commandments will give us a greater understanding of what God requires of mankind.  This increased understanding will, in turn, enable us to measure more accurately our own response to God's standard.  Next week we will begin our look at the Ten Commandments by asking, "How do the Ten Commandments begin?".