God’s story in god’s people

As we continue our study of God’s Story in God’s People, we have arrived with Israel at Mount Sinai, where God gave the Ten Commandments. We are working our way through each command—a series within a series.

Today, many, if not most, people believe there is no such thing as absolute truth. The world system has normalized the idea that truth is relative. You can believe what you want, and I can believe what I want because it is my truth. This mindset is called postmodernism. Along with postmodern thinking is the philosophy of moral therapeutic deism, which teaches that God wants everyone to be happy, so we are allowed to do whatever makes us feel good and satisfied.

Three months after freeing the Israelites from slavery, God gathered them at the base of Mount Sinai and gave them the law. His instructions included civil, ceremonial, and moral guidelines for Israel to follow. The moral law is summarized in the Ten Commandments. The first four commandments focus on our relationship with God, while the last six provide guidance on how we should interact with each other.

People often say things like: “God!” “Oh, my God!” “OMG!” “Good Lord!” “Christ!” “Jesus Christ!” Today, using God’s name as slang has become so common that it is seen as acceptable. However, remember, that’s what the world does—normalizes sin. 

Our study of God’s story in his people has brought us to Mount Sinai, where we stand with the Israelites at its base. Remember, lightning is cracking, thunder roars, and smoke from God’s fiery presence covers the trembling mountain as he gives his law.

Today, we're going to start examining the Ten Commandments by looking at each one in detail. But before we begin, let me ask you: what is the purpose of the Old Testament law? I believe there are four main points to consider when answering that question. 

The Israelites were free. After their miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, they saw God continue to go before them in a column of smoke and fire. God also provided daily manna from heaven and guided them to water sources. After traveling for three months, they arrived at the Sinai Desert and set up camp near Mount Sinai. Moses knew this wilderness well because he spent forty years herding his father-in-law’s sheep in the area. 

I firmly believe that all sound business principles are based on Scripture. Find any effective leadership principle, and I assure you there is a verse or passage supporting it. All truth ultimately points back to the Creator, who made us in his image. 

Do you ever feel tired? Weary from the struggle? Exhausted by the temptation that always seems just one stumble or one weak moment away from leading you into sin? Do you ever feel alone, as if you're the only one fighting the battle? Do you have anyone who walks with you, encourages you, and lifts you up when you are feeling vulnerable?