When I was writing the blog “Devotions of Knowledge” it prompted me to consider another topic for discussion in the series, “Devotions of Commandments.” While the word “commandment” often has a negative connotation in the world that is not comparable to the nature of commandments in the Bible. I actually think that studying the commandments of God is a very productive and insightful study (as is in study in the Bible), yet it is often ignored in the general study of the Word of God.
In writing this blog, I also want to point out that I am not simply considering the ten commandments (found in Exodus 20:1-17). There were many other commandments under the Old Law in the Old Testament besides the Ten Commandments, and there are many commandments in the New Testament. There are several ways you could approach a study of the commandments of God. First, you could look at specific commandments of God (What were/are the commandments of God? Have the changed over time? What commandments are found in the Old Testament? What commandments are found in the New Testament? Do the commandments of God apply to specific people, at specific times, or do they apply to everyone for all times?). These questions are things which need to be considered when trying to understand what God expects of man. I also think a good study about the commandments of God is in relation to the nature of the commandments of God. This is an important study because as I mentioned previously, “commandment” is often considered a negative thing; however, in the Bible “command” does not have the same undertone.
Below I have listed a few scriptures to consider when studying the concept of the commandments of God, found in the Bible. I have focused on verses from the 119th Psalm which expresses a considerable amount of detail about the commandments of God.
- Psalm 119:7-9: “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether.”
- Psalm 119:33-36: “Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!”
- Psalm 119:46-48: “I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame, for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love. I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes.”
- Psalm 119:66: “Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments.”
Related topics and words which may be useful in study: command, law, precept, instruction, instruct, statute
Here is a thought or question for consideration in your personal Bible study (actually a concept I hope to address in the near future): Are we bound by the Ten Commandments today? Why or why not according to the Bible?
All Scripture references are from the ESV.
Read the previous topic discussed: “Devotions of Knowledge”