Which concerns duties to fellow men.

Exodus 20:13 "You shall not murder."

This command guards the sanctity of human life. The Lord shows how this commandment is broken by anger in the heart.

Matthew 5:22 "But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment."

The outward act of murder is the fruit that springs from the root of an evil heart, full of malice and hatred. A new heart in which the love of God reigns, is the heart that can keep this commandment. This law affirmed the preciousness of each individual life.

Exodus 20:14 "You shall not commit adultery."

A commandment applicable to both husband and wife. (cf Leviticus 20:10; Hebrews 13:4 ). This law protects the sanctity of marriage against violation. According to the Lord adultery is committed in the heart.

Matthew 5:28 "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

The desire itself is sinful, and wrong desire leads to a sinful act. This law insists on fulfilment of the marriage contract in faithful love.

Exodus 20:15 "You shall not steal."

The commandment guards the sanctity of property. It attacks all dishonesty in taking time, money, ability paid for and withheld. The right of individuals to hold property is firmly held.

Exodus 20:16 "You shall not bear false witness ..."

This commandment guards reputation. This commandment was deliberately broken by the judges at the trial of Jesus in their seeking out false witnesses. (Matthew 26:59-61; Mark 14:55-59 ). This command insists on the speaking of the truth and nothing but the truth.

Exodus 20:17 "You shall not covet ..."

This commandment guards the heart against illicit desire. Sin usually originates from a wrong desire.

James 1:15 "When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, brings forth death."

This command stimulates and affirms human conscience. (Exodus 20:18-26 ). Fearful effect upon the people (Exodus 20:8-19 ). Purpose of phenomenon explained (Exodus 20:20 ), to prove the faithfulness of the people to Him - that they may fear sin - and sin not. Acceptable altars named (Exodus 20:24-26 ) enabling worship and sacrifice. The altar of earth would be applicable to special or temporary occasions. The altar of stone - no tool of man was to work on it. No approach to God should be attempted on the assumption of something acceptable in ourselves. No steps - reminds us of the teaching of the Lord.

Matthew 23:12 "And whoever exalts himself will be abased, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. Do you think that Genesis 9:6 explains God's reason for forbidding murder?
   • While this command protects the sanctity of human life do you believe that slaying of beasts is not prohibited (Genesis 9:3 )?
   • Would you say it does not apply to the execution of murderers when proven guilty (Genesis 9:6 )?
   • While not being guilty of murder, do you agree that malice and hatred are the root from which the fruit of murder springs (Matthew 5:22; 1 John 3:15 )?

2. Do you understand by the commandment not to commit adultery that God is insisting on the fulfilment of the marriage in faithful love?
   • Is it the will of God that the faithfulness of a man and woman to each other reflect God's own faithfulness to His own people?
   • Do you hold that adultery is a sin against God (Genesis 39:9 )?
   • Where did Jesus say adultery is first committed (Matthew 5:28 )?
   • Do you believe that because of the justifying work of Jesus, and the Spirit of God who sanctifies you, that you are no longer what you were (1 Corinthians 6:10-11 )?
   • A fruit of the Spirit is self-control. Do you feel this is a protection to you (Galatians 5:23; Titus 2:12 )?

3. While stealing the property of another is forbidden, what other kinds of theft do you understand the commandment to prohibit?
   • Do you believe God intends you to own personal property?
   • Is it right for you to guard what is yours and seek the punishment of those who steal from you?

4. Would you agree that the command not to bear false witness, in its literal sense applies to testimony in a court of law?
   • Does God so value your good reputation that He will ultimately vindicate you from false accusation (1 Peter 2:12 )?
   • Do you believe this command is violated by libel and slander or gossip?

5. Would you say covetousness is desire running riot?
   • What wrong things are you not to crave after?
   • Do you believe that the Lord Jesus can so strengthen by the indwelling Holy Spirit that you can learn to be content in every situation (Philippians 4:12-13 )?
   • Are you talking over your desires with the Lord, expecting the Holy Spirit to convince you when they are right, or when they are wrong?
   • Share on how the Holy Spirit accomplishes this in your case?
   • Would you like to comment on the warning about being covetous, in 1 Corinthians 5:10-11; 6:10; Ephesians 5:5?

6. What would be your reaction to the phenomenon of Exodus 20:18?
   • What was the request of the people, and their reason?
   • When unusual, awesome manifestations of the Lord's presence take place, how are you affected?
   • What was the explanation given by Moses, for the phenomenon?
   • What is right fear and what will such wholesome fear protect you from?

7. In the construction of the earthen altars of sacrifice, Moses was forbidden two things. What lessons can you apply to your own sacrificial service that you can share with others?