Some Christians believe the Old Testament no longer applies to today’s Christians, including the Ten Commandments. This article will address the 10 Commandments in the New Testament.
What are the Ten Commandments?
The Ten Commandments are the ten laws God gave Moses on Mount Sinai after he had led them from Egypt. These and other laws were for guidance for daily righteous living. However, the Ten Commandments form the core of the unique covenant between God and His people, the Israelites, so much so that God wrote them in stone with His finger (Exodus 31:18).
These Commandments are found in Exodus 20:1-17
1. And God spake all these words, saying,
2. I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
3. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
4. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:
5. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;
6. And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
7. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
8. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
9. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
10. But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
11. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
12. Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
13. Thou shalt not kill.
14. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
15. Thou shalt not steal.
16. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
17. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.
It is essential to understand that these Commandments were never meant to be a means by which the Israelites could earn salvation. God had already shown His favor when He delivered them from Egyptian bondage. This grace is something that He prefaced by reminding them at the commencement of providing the Commandments (vs. 2).
The Ten Commandments in the New Testament
In spite of what some believe regarding the Old Testament, the Ten Commandments are still applicable today. What needs to be recognized is that the Old Testament is the foundation. Without the Old Testament, there would be no New Testament. The New Testament Confirms the Old Testament. There are 343 Old Testament quotes in the New Testament and 2,309 allusions and parallels. The books most utilized are the Psalms (333 references, 79 quotes) and Isaiah (348 references, 66 quotes). The Book of Revelation contains no quotations but at least 620 allusions.
Jesus issued this confirmation in Matt. 5:17, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” Jesus ushered in the New Covenant, the New Testament (Hebrews 8:1,6), therefore fulfilling the Law. He didn’t come to abolish the Law or the prophets but to fulfill the promises in those Scripture passages.
Jesus lived the Law and gave life to the Law. He was able to live the life described by the words and rules and set the standard for us to follow. The New Testament Law that Jesus ushered in was the Law of love. Love fulfills the Law.
This truth is confirmed in other New Testament Scripture. For example, Romans 13:8-10
8. Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the Law.
9. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
10. Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the Law. NKJV
Notice the Commandments mentioned in this passage; all contained under the description of love, “love is the fulfillment of the Law. “Several Laws are quoted here, straight from the Commandments, to illustrate how they can be kept if an individual simply acts in love.
Remember the response of Jesus when asked what the greatest Commandment is. His response was in Matthew 22:37-40:
37. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38. This is the first and great Commandment.
39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the prophets.
Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy 6:5 but also stated a second Command addressing dealing with fellow human beings. The same love and care we have for ourselves should also extend to others. Jesus also clarified that these two Commands to love God and others as ourselves keep all other Laws in the Old and New Testaments.
Lastly, our eternal destiny is based on the Commandments. This truth is evident in Luke 10:25-28, which reads:
- On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
- “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”
- He answered: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”
- “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.“ NIV
This lawyer obviously knew the Law quoted from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, Old Testament Scripture, which demands total devotion to God and love for one’s neighbor. These two Commands go hand in hand. An individual cannot maintain a good relationship with God without having good relationships with their neighbors (their fellow human beings).
But look at Jesus’ final response in verse 28, “Do this and you will live.“ Jesus was referring to eternal life. By following these two Commandments, we fulfill the others and will inherit eternal life. While it is impossible to obey these on our own, it is possible with the help of the Holy Spirit.
It appears clear that the Old and New Testaments are equally crucial in knowing the will of the Lord. Without the Old Testament, there would be no New Testament. They are intertwined to give us the complete picture of what was, what is, and what shall be.
Amen
Questions, comments, and concerns may be left below.
Blessings!
You have explained the 10 Commandments in the New Testament in a way that gives a greater understanding by quoting the relevant corresponding verses. That there is a mirroring of the Old Testament commandments in the New can only be grasped by one who has had the revelation and the ability to grasp and interpret the scriptures. Your explanation of the relevance of the 10 Commandments in modern is quite revealing. The analogy between the two books goes a long way in making the reader appreciate the interrelation of the Old and New Testaments and the message of love. Thank you for sharing this message with such profound insights.
For sure, Tandi – You can’t have the new without the old.
Thanks for commenting!
Hello Nathaniel,
Thank you for this insightful exploration of the Ten Commandments in both the Old and New Testaments. It is reassuring to see how Jesus affirmed the continuity of God’s moral law while emphasising the centrality of love. The idea that love fulfills the law, encapsulating our relationship with God and others, is profound and brings clarity to how we should live as Christians.
This article beautifully connects the foundational principles of the Old Testament with the transformative teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, reminding us of the timeless relevance of God’s Word.
Blessings to you!
Thanks for commenting, Starlight.
Thanks for the reminder to look at the ethical principles of the Ten Commandments as guidance for moral values and behaviors. They are very much relevant today of course but they seem to have been forgotten by many. Thanks for bring this up! I liked the detailed explanation of each and the help to interpret them.
You’re welcome, MD.
Thanks for commenting!
This was very insightful into comparison of the new and Old Testament. It’s unfortunate to watch as the Old Testament isn’t distilled in our youth how it used to be. Life’s instructions to eternal life is right here and I thank you for sharing.Keep getting the Good Word out, It’s so important for as many people to hear and understand as possible!
Greetings, John – I agree; it is unfortunate that the Word of God isn’t instilled in the youth as it used to be. Instead, what is instilled is how to make the abnormal normal, the wrong right, and the darkness light. We are warned about this in the Scriptures. Isa 5:20 reads, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
We are warned.
Thanks for commenting!
I really enjoyed your post; I am a Christian and believe totally in the 10 commandments. They are so powerful, old and New Testament. God lived by these commandments, and I only wish in today’s society more human beings would really live by the commandments. More people need to pick up the holy book and read it and memorize the 10 commandments.
Amen, Samanthia! – If more people lived by the Ten Commandments, the world would be a much better place. I truly appreciate this comment.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel,
Thank you for this insightful post on the Ten Commandments in the New Testament! I appreciate the thorough explanation of how the Old Testament commandments are confirmed and fulfilled in the New Testament through the law of love.
I have a question regarding the practical application of these commandments today. How can Christians best navigate situations where cultural or societal norms seem to conflict with the principles laid out in the Ten Commandments? Are there specific guidelines or approaches that you recommend for applying these ancient laws in our modern context while maintaining their core essence?
Looking forward to your thoughts and wishing you a blessed day!
Jason
Greetings, Jason – I thank you for your insightful question. The approach I recommend for applying the Laws of God in our modern society is to stand firm on their principles. We must be on guard against compromise for the sake of modern ideals and stand for what is right and true—the truth. We are warned against doing otherwise. Isa 5:20 reads, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
Standing on truth will undoubtedly lead to conflict, but we must stand firm. Remember what Jesus said in Matt. 10:34, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.”
In this passage (vss. 32-42), Jesus made clear that His truth would cause conflict, but if we don’t stand firm, we are not worthy of Him.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi,
Thank you for the comprehensive exploration of the Ten Commandments in the New Testament. Your analysis offers valuable insight into how these ancient laws continue to hold relevance today. I particularly appreciated the connection you made between Jesus’ teachings and the fulfillment of the Law through love, as highlighted in Romans 13:8-10 and Matthew 22:37-40. The idea that love is the essence of fulfilling the Commandments provides a meaningful and practical approach to applying biblical principles in our lives. It’s fascinating to see how the Old and New Testaments are intertwined, reinforcing the importance of understanding both to fully grasp God’s will. Your emphasis on the continuity of these commandments and their impact on eternal life is thought-provoking and aligns well with the ongoing relevance of these teachings.
Yes, Annastasia – The individuals who wish to disregard the Old Testament are missing the full impact of the Scriptures.
Thanks for commenting!
Nathaniel,
I am unsure why people struggle with passages from the New Testament versus the old. The Old Testament occurred first and showed us how the world began and how the people of Israel came to be. Whereas, the New Testament came after and documented how the world was saved through what Jesus did for his people.
The 10 commandments are great and timeless as well. They are laws/rules that we should be proud to uphold, and they are in my opinion effortless to interpret and follow. Unfortunately, they seem easy for some to break, those individuals will answer to a much higher power to atone if possible.
Thanks for this easy read today. Keep the faith alive!
Stacie
Amen, Stacie! Those who break the Commandments of God will be held accountable.
Thanks for commenting!
The article “10 Commandments in the New Testament” on The Christian Advocate examines how the Ten Commandments from the Old Testament are reaffirmed and fulfilled in the New Testament through the teachings of Jesus. The author, Nathaniel, underscores that while the commandments are rooted in the Old Testament, their principles are echoed in the New Testament, particularly through the law of love emphasized by Jesus.
The piece argues that the essence of the Ten Commandments remains vital for Christians today, urging readers to live by these commandments to foster a better society. Nathaniel discusses how these ancient laws are relevant in contemporary contexts and offers insights on navigating modern societal norms that may conflict with biblical principles.
Thanks for commenting, Cornelius
I’ve never understood why people say that the Ten Commandments don’t apply these days because we are under the New Covenant. This is absolutely ridiculous. Honestly, the Old Testament is clearly the foundation of the New covenant, and even Jesus said that you must obey the commandments to have eternal life. Sigh. Some people are just ignorant, I guess.
Amen angelce903 – Thanks for commenting!
I found your exploration of the Ten Commandments in the New Testament to be both insightful and thought-provoking. Your analysis of how these commandments are integrated into New Testament teachings offered a fresh perspective on their relevance today. The connections you made to Jesus’ teachings and the Sermon on the Mount were particularly enlightening. One question I have is about the interpretation of the Commandments in different Christian denominations—do you find there are significant differences in how they are applied or understood across various traditions? Additionally, how can modern Christians effectively incorporate these principles into their daily lives? Your article has deepened my understanding of this important topic. Thank you for sharing such valuable insights!
Greetings, Jessica – I am happy you found the article enlightening.
The only way for modern Christians to incorporate the Commandments into their daily lives is to obey them—all of them. Obey them as opposed to finding reasons to discard them. For example, most of the world disobeys the Fourth Commandment. The day of worship is the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday), not the first (Sunday). The article Saturday vs. Sunday Worship explains this in detail.
The Commandments are clear, and as we obey them, they become even more profound. We are blessed as a result.
Thanks for commenting!
Hey there, Nathaniel!
Indeed, Jesus never said that we should no longer follow the Old Testament. In fact, Jesus made things even stricter. For example, in the Old Testament (the time of the Law) the sin was committed after doing something against the Law. But now, as we live the days of the New Testament, according to Jesus’ words, we commit sin even if we “think” about it. Unfortunately, there a lot or christians that like to ignore these details, saying that it’s not important to live according everything that is written in the Bible.
That’s why we live in one spiritual war every day, until our last breath. And only with the Holy Spirit we can be strong and win every time we are tempted by the devil.
Indeed, Nichkov, we are engaged in Spiritual Warfare
from the day we are born to the day that we die. The evil forces (Ephesians 6:12) are constantly at work, discouraging us from keeping God’s Commandments. Therefore, we must put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:13).
Thanks for commenting!
As an atheist, I approach the Ten Commandments not as divine edicts but as ethical guidelines that reflect a certain moral framework valued by many societies throughout history. Here are some insights I might offer:
1. Cultural Context: The Ten Commandments emerged from a specific historical and cultural background. Understanding their context helps illuminate why certain values were emphasized, like the importance of community and social order.
2. Moral Principles: Many of the commandments promote behavior that leads to harmonious living, such as prohibiting theft, murder, and false witness. These principles can be appreciated universally, regardless of religious belief, as they align with fundamental human values.
3. Human Impact: The focus on relationships, both with other individuals and the community, highlights essential aspects of human existence. Even without a religious framework, the idea of treating others with respect and kindness is a cornerstone of a functioning society.
4. Complexity of Morality: While the commandments provide clear directives, morality is often more nuanced than a simple list can capture. Different cultures and societies interpret right and wrong in myriad ways, depending on their unique experiences and challenges.
5. Unifying Influence: The Ten Commandments have had a significant influence on Western legal systems and moral philosophy. Acknowledging their impact on our legal and ethical structures can be valuable, even when viewed through a secular lens.
6. **Personal Reflection**: I find it interesting to reflect on the underlying values the commandments represent and how they relate to my own moral beliefs. It’s a reminder that ethical considerations can stem from reason and empathy, rather than solely from religious dictates.
In summary, the Ten Commandments can serve as a point of discussion about morality and ethics, even for those who do not subscribe to religious beliefs. They encourage reflection on what it means to live responsibly and harmoniously within a community.
Greetings, Jake – Without the Ten Commandments, there would be no basis for moral beliefs. As you pointed out in your fifth point, all civilized governments are based on them.
Take note of this quote from John Adams, one of the founding fathers and the second President of the United States, “our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” Our laws and our governments are based on the Ten Commandments. Individuals born into such governments have been raised under them, whether they recognize their origin or not. When they are not followed, chaos is the result.
On your 6th point, man’s reasoning and empathy alone are insufficient regarding morals. The Scriptures read in Jer. 17:9. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”
The human heart is deleterious. The human heart is the most deceitful and devious of all things and is dreadfully depraved. No one really knows how bad it is.
Whether one believes in the Holy Scriptures or not, they need to go no further than their televisions to see how accurate that statement is. To think that humans can exist on their own morality alone is derisory. It is the Ten Commandments given by a Holy God that influence human morality.
Not believing the truth doesn’t change it.
You mentioned theft, murder, and false witness. It is important to note that there is more to the Commandments than morality; the Ten Commandments, in their entirety, represent basic standards of behavior that can be divided into two groups: how we treat God and how we treat others. They create an environment that manifests love, peace, and harmony.
Therefore, the Ten Commandments should not be relegated to merely religious dictates but an expression of God’s love for His people and His desire to have a relationship with them. It behooves us to follow all
of them implicitly. They are not items on a menu to pick and choose.
I thank you for this experience. This is my first known communication with an atheist.
May the Lord bless you and help you recognize His truth.
Hi there
I like how your article The article offers a thoughtful exploration of how the timeless principles of the Ten Commandments are reiterated and emphasized in the New Testament teachings. The detailed scriptural references provide a comprehensive understanding of their relevance in modern Christian life, making it an excellent resource for both new believers and seasoned Christians seeking to deepen their faith. The clear and accessible writing style ensures that readers can easily follow and reflect on the connections made.
How do you think these insights might impact the way Christians apply the Ten Commandments in their daily lives today?
Hey Troy – The hope is for readers to fully understand that the Commandments apply today during New Testament times as they did during the Old Testament times and they should be obeyed. Modern Christians tend to discard the Old Testament, including the Ten Commandments. This perspective is a twisted view of the Scriptures that can lead to harmful consequences.
Thanks for commenting!
Overall, the article effectively bridges the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the enduring significance of the Ten Commandments through the lens of Jesus’ teachings on love and righteousness. It encourages readers to view the commandments as foundational principles that are realized and deepened in the New Testament teachings.
Keep up the good work!
Looking forward for more informative articles.
Thanks
Regards,
Mrs S
Thanks for commenting, Mrs. S.
This article provides a comprehensive look at how the Ten Commandments are not only foundational to the Old Testament but are also reinforced and fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus’ teachings. It’s enlightening to see how the principles of love and righteousness permeate both Testaments, creating a cohesive and timeless guide for living a life of faith.
One aspect that piqued my interest is the interpretation of the Commandments through the lens of love, as highlighted in Romans 13:8-10 and Matthew 22:37-40. It’s inspiring to realize that love is indeed the fulfillment of the Law, simplifying the Commandments into actionable steps centered on compassion and respect for others.
However, I’m curious about how this interpretation plays out in practical, everyday scenarios. For instance, how can we apply the principle of loving our neighbor in situations of conflict or disagreement? Are there any specific examples or teachings from the New Testament that guide us on handling such challenges while remaining true to the Commandments?
Additionally, the article could benefit from exploring how different Christian denominations view the Ten Commandments and their relevance today. Are there variations in how these Commandments are emphasized or taught across different branches of Christianity?
Thank you for such an insightful article! It’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Ten Commandments and their continued importance in the New Testament.
Greetings, Don – Many thanks for your insightful question.
Regarding loving our neighbors during conflict or disagreement, the New Testament passage that comes to mind is Ephesians 4:23-32, particularly verse 26. Disagreements and conflicts are inevitable. But if they aren’t settled by the end of the day—agree to disagree and move on in love. I hope this helps and answers the question.
Thanks for commenting!
This post provides a thought-provoking exploration of how the 10 Commandments are reflected in the New Testament. I appreciate the way it highlights the continuity and deeper moral principles that Jesus emphasized. It’s fascinating to see how these timeless commandments are interpreted and applied in the teachings of the New Testament.
One aspect that stood out to me is the focus on love and compassion as central themes. It really makes me think about how these values can be integrated into our daily lives beyond the literal commandments.
I’m curious, do you think there are any specific commandments that are more challenging to uphold in today’s society? How can we better incorporate these teachings into our modern lives? I’d love to hear your perspective on this!
Greetings, Shaun – Thank you for your questions.
Honestly, all of the Commands are challenging in today’s society. It’s the challenge we face as part of the spiritual warfare we’re involved in. However, one is most challenging because it is so entrenched in our society as a tradition not to follow it, which is the fourth Commandment involving the day of worship. The Commandment is to worship on the seventh day of the week (Saturday), not the first day (Sunday). For more detail, read the article, Saturday vs. Sunday worship.
The best way to incorporate the Commands and all of God’s Word into today’s society is to obey them uncompromisingly. Christians are to be the light in the darkness of this world. Matthew 5:14-16 reads:
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
We are to be obedient and let the world see our obedience in full view. While there may be resistance, we must press on shining and spreading light (Galatians 6:9). We will be blessed and a blessing to others.
Thanks for commenting!
Thank you for this insightful article. Your detailed explanation has significantly clarified the purpose and intent behind the Old Testament law, both in its historical context and its current application. I particularly appreciated how you traced the evolution of these laws and illustrated their relevance in today’s world. This comprehensive analysis has deepened my understanding, providing a clear perspective on the law’s objectives and implications. Your work has not only enhanced my knowledge but also inspired me to explore further how these principles can be applied in contemporary discussions and practices. Thank you and God bless you.
Greetings – I am immensely pleased that the article has been a blessing in giving you a greater understanding of God’s Laws and their relevance in our lives.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi,
This post is a great reminder that the 10 Commandments are also in the New Testament, but fulfilled by love. I appreciate that you point out that the commandments were never meant to be salvation for the God’s people.
Paul points out that the law is a school teacher, as it teaches us of our sin and need for the righteousness of God through Christ. I think Jesus even used the law as a school teacher when He spoke with the rich young ruler, when the ruler asked how he could inherit the kingdom of heaven. Jesus named off a few of the commandments and said he should do those things. When the ruler said he had kept all those since his youth, Jesus instructed him to sell all that he had and give it to the poor. The rich man walked away sadly. Through this, Jesus taught that he really wasn’t keeping all the law. When we break one commandment, we break them all.
What are your thoughts on this?
– Scott
Hi Scott – For sure we must keep all of the Law. James 2:10 reads, “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
The rich young ruler was missing one thing – love because he coveted
his riches.
Thanks for commenting!
As a lifelong reader and follower of the New Testament principles, I found the article linking the Ten Commandments to New Testament teachings to be a profound reminder of their timeless relevance. The discussion on how Jesus fulfills these commandments through love is both enlightening and inspiring.
It makes me reflect on how we, as believers, can better live out these commandments in our daily lives. How do you think applying these principles can impact our modern society?
Greetings, Jay Paul – Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16:
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
We are to be obedient and let the world see our obedience in full view. As we shine our lights, we will impact our modern society. While there may be resistance, we must press on shining and spreading light (Galatians 6:9). We will be blessed and a blessing to others.
Thanks for commenting!