Exodus 20

We see again that the awe of God is good, and it’s something that’s supposed to help keep us from sin.

Exodus 20:20 (WEB) “Moses said to the people, ‘Don’t be afraid, for God has come to test you, and that his fear may be before you, that you won’t sin.’ “

The 10 commandments help us to understand what sin is. 9 out of the 10 are repeated in the New Testament, so they are good guidelines for us. The 10th, regarding the Sabbath, shows us the importance of both rest and worship. The end of the chapter also shows us the importance of worship. The Sabbath itself, as formulated in the Old Testament, was designed specifically for Israel.

Exodus 31:12-13 (WEB) “The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Speak also to the children of Israel, saying, “Most certainly you shall keep my Sabbaths; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am the LORD who sanctifies you.” ‘ “

Thought for the day: Jesus reminds us that keeping the commandments isn’t just a matter of physical obedience. Sin begins in the heart.

Matthew 5:21-22 (WEB) “You have heard that it was said to the ancient ones, ‘You shall not murder;’ and ‘Whoever murders will be in danger of the judgement.’ But I tell you that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgement. Whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ will be in danger of the council. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of Gehenna.”