Overview

LAYING DOWN THE LAW

Exodus 19:3-8

Even under grace we need laws to give us boundaries. Some question whether we still need Ten Commandments. They are the foundation of Christian ethics and give us principles more than regulations. Discusses relation of Christianity and law.

First Commandment

GOD IS NUMBER ONE

Exodus 20:16

Discussion on monotheism, then looks at the characteristics of the God of the Bible. We must make a personal commitment to this God.

Second and Third Commandments

DON'T MANIPULATE GOD

Exodus 20:4-6

We don't tend to make wooden idols anymore but plenty of people make their own god. God is jealous and wants our undivided attention. Also looks at taking the Lord's name in vain and the importance of promises.

Fourth Commandment

YOU NEED THE REST

Exodus 20:8-11

The Sabbath isn't what it used to be but it remains an eternal command. Sabbath rest is a way of acknowledging God's place in our lives. Looks at the teaching of Jesus on the Sabbath, the history in the church, and the advantages of having a day of rest.

Fifth Commandment

HONOR YOUR FOLKS

Exodus 20:12

Parents have a huge role in molding us and the Bible places much emphasis on them. Parents need to be obeyed and esteemed. Sermon looks at how to honor our parents and possible limits.

Sixth Commandment

THE CULTURE OF DEATH

Exodus 20:13

All cultures condemn murder and we don't tend to think of it as "our" problem, but we all have the capability within us. Society often sees death as a solution: abortion, death penalty, euthanasia, suicide, war. Our answer to evil should be to overcome it with good.

Seventh Commandment

GREENER GRASS

Exodus 20:14
Proverbs 6:32-35

Adultery has its attractions but is ultimately destructive to God's ideal of marriage. Looks at the causes of adultery and five steps to affair-proof your marriage. Adultery is a sin but can be forgiven by God and marriages can be healed by him.

Eighth Commandment

DON'T RIP PEOPLE OFF

Exodus 20:15

Our generation has seen a big shift in attitudes toward theft. Looks at concept of private property, Biblical variations on stealing, stealing from God, the effects of stealing, and concludes that we shouldn't.

Ninth Commandment

TELLING THE TRUTH

Exodus 20:16
Proverbs 6:16-19

Deceitfulness is common and even justified by believers. Sermon looks at the ways people lie, the cure for dishonesty and concludes with an appeal for hearers to assess themselves.

Tenth Commandment

WATCH WHAT YOU WANT

Exodus 20:17

This is the "quiet" commandment that trips everyone up, though we don't admit it. We have a lust to own more and more stuff. Coveting is a sin of the inner heart and has rampant effects on us. The alternative is godly contentment.