What are the objections for the Ten Commandments Commission?

The Ten Commandments Commission

The Ten Commandments Commission, composed of Christian and Jewish leaders, designated May 7, 2006, as America’s first annual “Ten Commandments Day” to promote the supreme importance of the Law of God in our society. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the moral foundation that the Ten Commandments provide, emphasizing their relevance in contemporary culture. The Commission’s official website, www.tencommandmentsday.com, states:

“Recent court rulings have threatened the very fabric and foundation of our culture and faith. The Ten Commandments, which have served as the moral foundation and anchor of our great country, are systematically being removed from public places. Public displays of the Ten Commandments have been a powerful visual testimony to the fact that the United States of America is “one nation under God.” Their removal from public places shows that those with a secular humanist agenda are intent on destroying the moral heritage of our nation. Those who care about traditional values cannot passively sit by and watch the removal of the very principles that made this country great. The Ten Commandments are the heart of all moral code and must be restored to the heart of our society. We are inviting all Christians, churches, synagogues, ministry leaders, religious bookstores, and everyone who is interested in preserving traditional values to join us in a national and global movement to restore the Word of God to our nation.”

Understanding the Objections

While the Ten Commandments are upheld as God’s Moral law (Exodus 20) for all people, there are significant objections regarding their enforcement by civil authorities. The primary concern is that enforcing these laws through state power could infringe upon the freedom of choice that God has granted to humanity. This raises important questions about the role of government in matters of faith and morality. The balance between upholding divine law and respecting individual freedoms is a complex issue that requires careful consideration.

The Nature of the Commandments

The Ten Commandments were inscribed on two tablets of stone (Exodus 31:18). The first tablet contains the first four commandments, which focus on our relationship with God: no other gods, no idols, reverence His Name, and keeping the seventh day Sabbath holy (Exodus 20:2-11). The second tablet outlines the last six commandments, which pertain to our relationships with others: honor your parents, no murder, no adultery, no stealing, no lying, and no coveting (Exodus 20:12-17). This division highlights the distinct roles that these commandments play in guiding both personal faith and social conduct.

Only the commandments on the second tablet fall within the legitimate sphere of human governments. The first tablet, which deals with our relationship with God, lies outside the jurisdiction of earthly governments and should never be legislated or enforced upon people. This distinction is crucial in understanding the objections to the Ten Commandments Commission. It underscores the importance of personal conviction in matters of faith, which cannot be mandated by law.

Historical Context of Legislation

Throughout history, Christians have sometimes erred by attempting to legislate religious observances, such as Sunday laws (often referred to as ‘blue laws’) in various states. These laws still exist today and serve as a reminder of the potential consequences of intertwining faith with civil governance. The book of Revelation warns that at the very end of time, there will be a movement enforcing the traditions of men, including Sunday observance, through civil laws (Revelation 13:15-17). This historical context serves as a cautionary tale for those advocating for the Ten Commandments in public life.

It is essential for Christians to promote the Ten Commandments as God’s perfect standard of morality, but this should be done through love and persuasion rather than coercion. Jesus emphasized this principle when He said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). His desire is to write His law in our hearts through grace (Hebrews 10:15-16), not through forceful legislation. This approach fosters genuine faith and encourages individuals to embrace God’s law willingly.

Specific Objections to the Commission

First Objection: Enforcement of Religious Law

The Ten Commandments Commission has officially designated Sunday, May 7, 2006, as Ten Commandments Day. However, a critical examination of the commandments reveals that the fourth commandment explicitly states, “the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord” (Exodus 20:10).

According to world calendars and encyclopedias, the seventh day is Saturday, not Sunday. Therefore, the focus of the Ten Commandments Day Commission should be on raising awareness about God’s holy day of worship, which is Saturday. This misalignment raises questions about the Commission’s commitment to accurately representing the commandments.

Second Objection: Misinterpretation of the Law

There is a prevalent misconception that Jesus abolished the Ten Commandments when He died on the cross. While the New Testament teaches that we are saved by grace, not by works (Romans 3:28 and Ephesians 2:8), this does not mean that the Ten Commandments are no longer obligatory. In fact, the New Testament clarifies that “sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4).

Jesus Himself affirmed the enduring nature of the law, stating, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled” (Matthew 5:17-18). This affirmation reinforces the need for Christians to uphold the commandments as a guide for moral living.

Thus, the Ten Commandments remain binding today, including the observance of God’s seventh day Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11). Understanding this is vital for Christians who seek to uphold God’s moral law in their lives and communities. It also emphasizes the importance of educating others about the true meaning and relevance of the commandments in today’s society.

Practical Applications of the Ten Commandments

In light of these objections, it is essential for Christians to consider how the Ten Commandments can be applied in everyday life. Upholding these commandments involves more than mere adherence to rules; it requires a heart transformation that reflects God’s love and righteousness. For instance, honoring one’s parents can lead to stronger family relationships, while refraining from stealing fosters trust within communities. Each commandment serves as a guide to living harmoniously with others and with God.

Moreover, Christians are encouraged to engage in discussions about the significance of the Ten Commandments in modern society. This can involve community outreach, educational programs, and interfaith dialogues that promote understanding and respect for moral values. By actively participating in these initiatives, believers can demonstrate the relevance of God’s law in shaping ethical behavior and social justice.

Conclusion: The Importance of Upholding the Ten Commandments

In conclusion, the objections to the Ten Commandments Commission highlight the delicate balance between faith and governance. While the Ten Commandments serve as a moral compass for society, their enforcement through civil means raises significant ethical concerns.

Christians are called to advocate for these commandments through love and understanding, fostering a culture that respects individual freedom while promoting God’s moral standards. By doing so, they can contribute to a society that honors God’s law while allowing for personal conviction and choice.