We have reached Chapter 5 in The Story, and our focus has been on the Old Testament. Today, we’re focusing on how the Israelites (God’s people) are delivered with Moses as their leader from the Egyptians. Two months into their journey through the desert, God gives His people the Ten Commandments. What’s the purpose behind the Ten Commandments? Are they still useful today as “rules for life and living”? How is a Christian to understand these Old Testament commands in light of being a New Testament believer?  

Exodus 19:1-8

Israel at Mount Sinai

19 On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. 2 They set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, and they encamped in the wilderness. There Israel encamped before the mountain, 3 while Moses went up to God. The Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself. 5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you shall be My treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is Mine; 6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.” 7 So Moses came and called the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the Lord had commanded him. 8 All the people answered together and said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.” And Moses reported the words of the people to the Lord.

Exodus 20:1-3

The Ten Commandments

20 And God spoke all these words, saying, 2 “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. 3 “You shall have no other gods before Me.

Exodus 24:7-8

7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read it in the hearing of the people. And they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient.” 8 And Moses took the blood and threw it on the people and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.”

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Exodus 19:1-7; Exodus 20:1-17

1. Can you, your family, or your group state the Ten Commandments from memory? (No cheating!) 

2. Of all the commandments, which one appears to be the most ignored, broken, or viewed as outdated by our society today? 

3. “You are accepted... now obey.” How are these words or motivations for following God distinct from other religions? (19:4) 

4. Which description of a child of God most resonates with you? (19:5-6 - treasured possession, kingdom of priests, holy) 

5. Read Matthew 5:17 and Hebrews 10:19-23. What comfort do these Gospel promises bring for you today in light of the commandments of God?

For Families with Kids

Memorize the Ten Commandments as a family. Kids will bring home a “shortened version” and memory game this week.   

1. What is a rule you have at home? Why are rules important? Which is the most important commandment? Read Matthew 22:36-40. What does Jesus mean?

2. Pray, “Thank You God for the Ten Commandments that guide us and help us know You better. Thank You for the forgiveness that Jesus gives us when we mess up. Teach us to show love for You by following the example of Jesus in our words and actions. Amen.”