Using the Ten Commandments

It’s common for people to think they have kept God’s commandments. When I ask people if they think they are good people, most say yes. Yet this is often because most people haven’t honestly examined their lives in light of God’s Word. The Bible reveals that the commandments are key to showing people their need for Jesus, the only one who can save them from the fate they deserve. So before I share the hope Jesus offers, I show people their need for him. I ask, “Have you lied?” “Have you stolen?” “Have you used God’s name in vain?” “Have you looked with lust?”

I don’t use all ten of the Ten Commandments when speaking to a lost person. This is because certain sins are more easily recognized. Sometimes, I mention the first and the second commandment when I detect the presence of idolatry. But I normally confine it to four—lying, stealing, blasphemy, and adultery of the heart. When there is self-righteousness, I mention that God considers hatred to be murder of the heart, and sometimes, I point out the sin of parental dishonor. I model this structure off what Jesus did. He used five of the commandments with the rich man (Mark 10:19).

Perhaps you are cringing a little at these strongly worded questions. Let me address that concern by saying that I am very careful to watch my tone, though my words are serious. My words issue from a deep concern for these people. The reality is that we all fall short. If people are not awakened to their terrible danger, they won’t flee from God’s wrath. Think of the tone you would have for someone who remains in bed in a burning house. It would be mingled with love, a deep concern, and a tremendous urgency.

We may think we are good people, but in our hearts and by our actions, we have violated God’s law. And if we violate the law of our holy, just Creator, it will kill us. The cold reality of our impending death should convince us that God is deadly serious about sin. But thankfully, the law is also designed to dawn light on our sins, like the rising sun enlightens the early morning, which allows us to see our sins and repent before it’s too late.

Jesus is our example. He shows us how to reach the lost. So, never hesitate to use the Ten Commandments to help people clearly see Jesus.