Faith and Salvation

What Does the Bible Say About the Ten Commandments?

The Ten Commandments are God's moral law, given to Israel at Sinai and grounded in principles that existed before Sinai.

Biblical explanation

God Himself spoke the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20. They cover humanity's relationship with God and with other people. The first four emphasize love and loyalty toward God. The final six address relationships with other human beings. Jesus summarized the entire moral law as love for God and love for neighbor: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart..." Matthew 22:37 and: "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Matthew 22:39 Paul likewise says: "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." Romans 13:10 Love does not eliminate the commandments. It expresses their underlying purpose.

Key takeaway

Salvation is entirely by grace through faith in Christ. His atoning sacrifice, heavenly ministry, and intercession are the foundation of assurance; obedience, Sabbath faithfulness, and loving service are the fruit of a redeemed life, never a way to purchase acceptance with God.

Bible references