PASTOR’S NOTES
I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of Bondage.”
For the next few weeks we will find ourselves in the Ten Commandments. We will be teaching through many challenging topics when it comes to the life of believers. In just one chapter, God addresses man’s priorities, schedules, relationships, and actions. God leaves nothing to be debated, the commandments that are given are considered the Law of God!
When it comes to any type of “Law,” it’s key to see that the law always reflects the character of the one who gave it. The reason that we have speed limits are because those in authority desire safety. The reason that there are laws around children receiving an education and resources is because we want to ensure the best for those who are young and who are our future generation. Laws reflect character.
We see this same truth in God’s Law. When God sets laws before the people, we must recognize God’s character behind each and every command given.
In chapter 20, God speaks laws to guide the people because He ultimately cares about them. God loves, cares, and wants what’s best for His creation. Each and every commandment could be seen differently in topic, but all are founded on the same character. A character of love.
God opens chapter 20 by first reminding the people who He is to them. God was about to address many difficult aspects of the human life and behavior and He knew that to do so the people had to fully understand who He was in the light of who they were. God does this by reminding the people of His salvation and love for them.
“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of Bondage.”
When certain aspects of life are addressed, we often respond with, “Who do you think you are?” Before God gives even one command, He ensures the people are reminded of who is talking.
As we enter the same text as these people encountered, I pray we never lose sight of verse 1. The character of God should humble our hearts and open our ears to what God desires in our life.
Lastly, not only do we see God’s character in the Law, but also our inability to keep the law He has set before us. The ten commandments points us to a lifestyle that is God honoring, but also a desperation of a the savior who came and was the only one who could keep all the commandments perfectly. We strive for perfection and are driven to our knees in our knowledge that perfection is impossible.
Possible for only One. Christ Jesus!
SCRIPTURE TO GO ALONG WITH THE MESSAGE
Read Luke 10:11-21 as we teach of Jesus’ love as the great shepherd.
HIGHLIGHT IN YOUR BIBLES
Highlight verse 1 in chapter 20 of Exodus.
