In the third week of the third volume of the Bible Engagement Project, Pastor Josh continues to examine Exodus, breaking down the purpose of the ten commandments.
If you have grown up in church or had any familiarity with church, you have come across the ten commandments. But why did God give them to the Israelites? What purpose do they serve today? In the same way that parents give rules and instill values to their children, God wanted to set His people on the right path, knowing if they misrepresent Him, it would be easier to discredit His glory. In Exodus 20, before God even gave the law to Moses, He establishes Himself as the deliverer. God had delivered the people of Israel throughout their journey, but what would follow would be the law that would allow for God to deliver His people through the rest of the Old Testament. More than just a set of rules, the purpose of the ten commandments was rooted in relationship. God desired to be worshipped and given the glory He deserved. This was reflected in how each commandment speaks against idolatry in some form or another, whether through literal idols being formed or lifting ourselves up through lying or coveting. God also knew that there had to be a Messiah. After appearing to the Israelites and making them afraid, it was clear to have the relationship that God wanted to have with humanity, a mediator was needed. We know that this mediator would be Jesus, who stated in Matthew 5, that He had not come to abolish the law, but fulfill it!
Scripture References: Exodus 20:1-6, 18-21
