Introduction

Understanding and incorporating the Commandments into daily life is a paramount task for Christians, yet it remains a challenge. This article delves into practical steps to obey these commandments, drawing from biblical teachings and individual experiences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obeying the Commandments

1. Admit and Accept Your Sinfulness

The pivotal first step in obeying the Commandments is acknowledging that you are a sinner. Romans 3:23 states, 'For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.' Understanding this is the foundation for accepting the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

2. Believe in Jesus Christ

1 John 2:2 reinforces the importance of believing that Jesus Christ died for our sins. This belief is not just intellectual but a personal and heartfelt conviction.

3. Respond in Repentance and Faith

The next step involves a personal response of repentance and faith. This act of turning away from sin and trusting in Jesus is critical.

4. Live in Christ Jesus

Colossians 2:6–7 encourages a life lived in Christ Jesus, abiding in Him. This ongoing relationship is the essence of Christian life.

5. Read and Study the Bible

2 Timothy 3:16–17 underscores the importance of continuous Bible study and the faith that comes from scripture.

Loving God and Your Neighbor

A renowned phrase encapsulates the essence of the commandments: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matthew 22:37–39) This love extends beyond mere affection, embodying a commitment to right action and faith.

Psalms 119 Versus the 10 Commandments

Psalm 119, often referred to as the 'Law of Love,' is a poetic expression that seeks to fulfill the intent of the Ten Commandments, focusing on the depth of faith and love that Christ has instilled in believers.

Comparing Rabbinic Law to Christian Faith

Rabbinic law, originating from the laws given to Moses, includes 613 precepts, some uniquely observed by modern-day Jewish people. These laws, while valuable, are not binding on Christians, who are under the Two Great Commandments.

First, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' (Deuteronomy 6:5) Second, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Leviticus 19:18) Jesus taught that these two commandments, if kept, fulfill the law and the prophets.

Practical Steps in Following Jesus

Without Jesus, it's impossible to strictly obey the commandments. It's important to pray for strength and mercy, recognizing that even with good intentions, human beings fall short. Jesus offers salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit to help believers.

Step 1: Consider becoming Jewish and studying the Ten Commandments in their rabbinical context. This can provide insight into the broader laws but remember, these are not obligatory for Christians.

Step 2: Observe the Sabbath according to your traditions, but remember that the essence of the Sabbath is rest and reflection on God's Word. Many Christians view Jesus as their Sabbath rest, as He fulfilled the Law.

Belief and Love are Interconnected

Belief in Jesus is not just passive acceptance but an active faith that inspires love for God and neighbor. Faith is a verb, calling us to action, and its fulfillment is greater than the strict observance of the Ten Commandments.

Remember, loving God and neighbor, as exemplified by Jesus, cannot be achieved without the Holy Spirit's working within us. Ephesians 2:10 speaks of the works prepared for us by God, through which we fulfill God's will.

Conclusion

The commandments, though valuable, are not a path to God's favor. Christ offers salvation and the power to love truly. Embrace the Two Great Commandments and let your faith guide your actions. Pray for and accept the grace and mercy of God, and let His love spill out through you.

Thus, while the commandments are a vital guide, the true fulfillment of them lies in loving God with all our hearts and souls and loving our neighbors as ourselves, a life lived in Christ Jesus, and continuous study and acceptance of God's Word.