Sermon:The 70 commandments

WHAT ARE COMMANDMENTS? 

▪︎A set of divine laws or instructions given by God to guide human behavior, particularly in how to love and serve God and others.

▪︎Moral and ethical guidelines laid down in Scripture, notably the Ten Commandments in the Old Testament, and further teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, which help Christians live a life of holiness, justice, and love.

▪︎Rules for Christian living and worship that encompass both personal conduct and the treatment of others, centered on honoring God and embodying His love through actions.

70 THINGS THE BIBLE COMMANDS US TO DO

The Bible provides a wide range of commandments that instruct believers on how to live holy, just, and loving lives.

1)Worship and serve God only.

- Matthew 4:10,"You shall worship the Lord your God,and Him only you shall serve."

2)Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.

-Matthew 22:37,"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,with all your soul,and with all your mind."

3)Worship God in spirit and truth.

 -John 4:24,"God is a spirit,and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."

4)Trust God with all your heart.

-Proverbs 3:5-6,"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and lean not on your own understanding. "

5)Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.

-Acts 16:31,"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,and you will be saved,you and your household."

6)Love your neighbor as yourself.

-Matthew 22:39,"You shall love your neighbor as yourself. "

7)Love one another.

-John 13:34,:A new commandment I give to you,that You love one another,as I have loved you."

8)Bear one another’s burdens.

-Galatians 6:2,"Bear one another’s burdens,and so fulfill the law of Christ."

9)Do not oppress or mistreat a stranger.

-Exodus 22:21,"You shall neither mistreat a stranger nor oppress him."

-Exodus 23:9,"And you shall not oppress a stranger..."

10)Do not steal.

-Deuteronomy 5:19,"You shall not steal."

11)Do not covet.

-Deuteronomy 5:21,"You shall not covet your neighbour's wife...."

-Luke 12:15,"Take heed and beware of covetousness..."

12)Do not bear false witness.

-Exodus 23:1,"You shall not circulate a false report."

13)Do not judge or condemn others.

-Luke 6:37,"Judge not,and you shall not be judged.Condemn not,and you shall not be condemned."

14)Do not lie to one another.

-Colossians 3:9,"Do not lie to one another."

15)Do not hate in your heart.

-Leviticus 19:17,"You shall not hate your brother in your heart."

16)Do not be anxious for anything. 

-Philippians 4:6,"Be anxious for nothing."

17)Do not worry about anything.

-Matthew 6:25,"Therefore I say to you,do not worry about your life,what you will eat or what you will drink;nor about your body,what you will put on."

18)Forgive others.

 -Matthew 6:14,"For if you forgive men their trespasses,your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

19)Live a holy life.

-Leviticus 11:45,"You shall therefore be holy,for I am holy."

-Leviticus 19:2,"You shall be holy,for I the Lord your God am holy."

20)Flee from sexual immorality.

-1 Corinthians 6:18,"Flee sexual immorality,"

21)Flee from youthful lusts.

-2 Timothy 2:22,"Flee also youthful lusts.."

22)Abstain from every form of evil.

-1 Thessalonians 5:22,"Abstain from every form of evil."

23)Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus.

-Acts 2:38,"Repent,and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. "

24)Depart from iniquity.

-2 Timothy 2:19,"Let everyone who names the name of Christ Depart from iniquity. "

25)Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.

-2 Corinthians 6:14,"Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers."

26)Do not imitate what is evil.

-3 John 11,"Beloved,do not imitate what is evil,but what is good."

27)Do not have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.

-Ephesians 5:11,"And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.."

28)Do not commit adultery.

-Deuteronomy 5:18,"You shall not commit adultery. "

29)Do not practise homosexuality.

 -Leviticus 18:22,"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. 

30)Do not practice divination or soothsaying -Leviticus 19:26,"Nor shall you practice divination or soothsaying."

31)Do not do charitable works to be seen. 

-Matthew 6:1,"Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men,to be seen by them."

32)Repay no one evil for evil.

-Romans 12:17,"Repay no one evil for evil."

33)Let all you do be done with love.

-1 Corinthians 16:14,"Let all that you do be done with love."

34)Give tithes and offerings.

-Malachi 3:8,"Will a man Rob God?Yet you have robbed Me!But you say,in what way have we robbed You?In tithes and offerings."

35)Seek justice.

-Micah 6:8,"And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly,to love mercy,And to walk humbly with your God?

36)Honor the elderly. 

 -Leviticus 19:32,"You shall rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man."

37)Do not share in other people’s sins.

-1 Timothy 5:22,"Do not lay hands on anyone hastily,nor share in other people’s sins."

38) Go into all the world and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

 -Mark 16:15,"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. "

39)Make disciples of all nations 

-Matthew 28:19-20,"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.."

40)Do not follow a crowd to do evil.

-Exodus 23:2,"You shall not follow a crowd to do evil."

41)Do not take a bribe.

-Exodus 23:8,"And you shall take no bribe."

42)Do not swear.

-Matthew 5:34,"Do not swear at all..."

-Leviticus 19:12,"And you shall not swear by My name falsely.."

43)Do not curse your father or mother.

-Leviticus 20:9,"For everyone who curses his father or his mother shall surely be put to death."

44)Be doers of the word.

-James 1:22,"But be doers of the word,and not hearers only."

45)Rejoice at all times.

-1 Thessalonians 5:16,"Rejoice always."

46)Honor your father and mother.

-Exodus 20:12,"Honor your father and your mother,that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you."

47)Do not attack your neighbor secretly.

 -Deuteronomy 27:24,"Cursed is the one who attacks his neighbor secretly."

48)Discipline your body.

-1 Corinthians 9:27,"But I Discipline my body and bring it into subjection,lest,when I have preached to others,I myself should become disqualified."

49)Walk after God and fear Him.

 -Deuteronomy 13:4,"You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear Him."

50)Do not love the world or the things of the world.

-1 John 2:15,"Do not love the world or the things in the world."

51)Do not let any corrupt communication proceed from your mouth.

-Ephesians 4:29,"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth.."

52)Observe the Sabbath day.

-Deuteronomy 5:12,"Observe the Sabbath day,to keep it holy."

53)Bring your firstfruits to the house of the Lord.

-Exodus 34:26,"The first of the firstfruits of your land you shall bring to the house of the Lord your God."

-Exodus 22:29,"You shall not delay to offer the first of your ripe produce and your juices.The firstborn of your sons you shall give to Me."

54)Do not sacrifice to any god.

-Exodus 22:20,"He who sacrifices to any god,except to the Lord only,he shall be utterly destroyed. "

55)Do not allow a sorceress or a witch to live.

-Exodus 22:18,"You shall not permit a sorceress  to live."

56)Be fruitful and multiply.

-Genesis 1:28,"Be fruitful and multiply;fill the earth and subdue it.."

57)Do not make mention of the name of other gods

-Exodus 23:13,"And make no mention of the name of other gods,nor let it be heard from your mouth."

58)Do not drink wine or intoxicating drink.

-Leviticus 10:8,"Do not drink wine or intoxicating drink."

59)Do not practise bestality. 

-Leviticus 18:23,"Nor shall any woman stand before an animal to mate with it.It is perversation.

60)Do not turn to idols or make images of other gods.

-Leviticus 19:4,"Do not turn to idols ,nor make for yourselves molded gods."

61)Do not be a talebearer.

-Leviticus 19:16,"You shall not go about as a talebearer among your people."

62)Do not tatoo any marks on you.

-Leviticus 19:28,"You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead,nor tattoo any marks on you."

63)Do not kidnap anyone.

-Deuteronomy 24:7,"If a man is found kidnapping any of his brethren of the children of Isreal,and mistreat him or sells him,then that kidnapper shall die.."

-Exodus 21:16,"He who kidnaps a man and sells him,or if he is found in his hand,shall surely be put to death."

64)Do not kill the innocent and the righteous.

 -Exodus 23:7,"Keep yourself far from a false matter;do not kill the innocent and righteous."

65)Do not look lustfully at a woman.

-Matthew 5:28,"But i say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

66)Do not kill or commit murder.

-Deuteronomy 5:17,"You shall not murder"

67)Obey God rather than men.

-Acts 5:29,"We ought to obey God rather than men."

68)Flee from idolatry.

-1 corinthians 10:14,"Therefore,my beloved,Flee from idolatry."

69)Live a quiet life and mind your own business.

-1 Thessalonians 4:11,"That you should aspire to lead a quiet life,to mind your own business,and to work with your own hands."

70)Do not sin.

-1 John 5:18,"We know that whoever is born of God does not sin.."

STEPS TO IMPLEMENT THE COMMANDMENTS IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

-Leviticus 10:8 ,"Do not drink wine or intoxicating drink".

◇Step:Make a conscious choice to avoid or limit alcohol and intoxicants, especially in social settings or situations where it could compromise your behavior or judgment.  

◇Implementation:Create personal boundaries around drinking, such as deciding beforehand not to drink or seeking alternatives like water or juice.

- Leviticus 18:23 ,"Do not practice bestiality".

◇Step:Maintain respect for animals and uphold the natural order of relationships by avoiding any practices that objectify or harm them.  

◇Implementation: Educate yourself on ethical treatment of animals and avoid any behavior or media that promotes unhealthy relationships with them.

- Leviticus 19:4,"Do not turn to idols or make images of other gods". 

◇Step:Commit to a personal faith in God and avoid idolatry by prioritizing your relationship with Him over material possessions or false beliefs.  

◇Implementation:Set aside time for prayer, bible study, and worship. Avoid distractions that promote idol worship, such as certain television shows or cultural practices.

- Leviticus 19:16 ,"Do not be a talebearer".

◇Step:Practice honesty and integrity in your speech. Resist the urge to gossip or share rumors.  

◇Implementation: Before speaking about others, ask yourself whether it’s beneficial, true, and necessary to say. Set boundaries in conversations that involve gossip.

- Leviticus 19:28 ,"Do not tattoo any marks on you"

◇Step: Reflect on personal decisions about body modifications based on faith and scripture. Consider if these practices align with your beliefs about the body being a temple.  

◇Implementation: Educate yourself on the cultural and spiritual significance of tattoos and choose to honor your body through modesty and care.

-Deuteronomy 24:7 & Exodus 21:16 ,"Do not kidnap anyone"

◇Step:Advocate for the protection of human rights, freedom, and dignity. Support efforts that combat human trafficking and slavery.  

◇Implementation: Volunteer for organizations that fight trafficking, and educate yourself and others on how to prevent exploitation.

- Exodus 23:7,"Do not kill the innocent and the righteous". 

Step: Value and respect life, both human and animal. Avoid harming others, and stand against injustice.  

◇Implementation: Stand up for those who cannot defend themselves, and get involved in efforts that promote justice and the protection of the innocent.

- Matthew 5:28,"Do not look lustfully at a woman"

◇Step:Practice self-control and purity in thought. Avoid temptations that lead to lustful thinking, such as explicit media or inappropriate relationships.  

◇Implementation:Cultivate a mindset that respects others as created in God’s image. Avoid situations or content that encourage lustful thoughts.

- Deuteronomy 5:17 ,"Do not kill or commit murder". 

 ◇Step: Value life and resolve conflicts peacefully. Handle disagreements with love and respect, avoiding any violence.  

 ◇Implementation:Practice forgiveness, de-escalate conflicts, and seek peaceful resolutions in difficult situations.

- Acts 5:29 ,"Obey God rather than men".

 ◇Step: Prioritize God’s commandments over societal pressures or human expectations. Stand firm in your faith, even when it’s difficult.  

◇Implementation: Regularly reflect on God’s word and make decisions that align with your faith, even if they contradict societal norms or governmental rules.

- 1 Corinthians 10:14,"Flee from idolatry".

 ◇Step: Be proactive in avoiding idols—anything that competes for your devotion or love for God, like fame, wealth, or success.  

◇Implementation:Regularly assess your priorities and ensure they align with God’s will. Engage in practices that help you focus on Him.

- 1 Thessalonians 4:11,"Live a quiet life and mind your own business". 

 ◇Step:Seek peace and avoid unnecessary conflict or drama. Focus on personal growth and fulfilling your responsibilities.  

 ◇Implementation: Practice patience, focus on your work, and refrain from meddling in others’ affairs. Set clear boundaries in relationships.

- 1 John 5:18 ,"Do not sin"

◇Step:Strive for holiness by relying on God’s grace to overcome temptation. Repent and seek forgiveness when you fail.  

◇Implementation: Keep a daily habit of prayer, meditation, and bible study to strengthen your resolve against sin. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages righteousness.

WAYS THE COMMANDMENTS CAN TRANSFORM YOUR DAILY LIFE

□Spiritual Growth: By following these commandments, you’ll deepen your relationship with God, developing a strong, consistent spiritual practice. 

□Increased peace and clarity:Adhering to these principles brings inner peace. By avoiding sinful behaviors (like gossip, lust, or violence), you’ll experience a clearer conscience, leading to a more peaceful and balanced life.

□Stronger relationships:These commandments foster honesty, respect, and self-control, which are essential for healthy relationships.

□Better decision making:When you align your actions with biblical commandments, decisions become easier.

□Healthier Lifestyle:The commandments encourage practices like avoiding intoxication, maintaining sexual purity, and respecting your body, all of which contribute to overall physical and mental well-being. 

□Fulfilling purpose:Living in accordance with these commandments helps you recognize and fulfill your purpose as a follower of Christ, focusing on love, service, and integrity. 

□Restoration of Justice: By avoiding harmful actions like murder, kidnapping, and exploitation, you contribute to a society that values life and justice. 

PRAYERS

1.Lord, help me not to oppress or mistreat anyone, especially strangers, but to welcome them with kindness and love, just as you have welcomed me in Jesus' name.

2.Father, keep me from spreading false reports or rumors. Let my words be true, and may they always build up rather than tear down in Jesus' name.

3. God, teach me to be faithful in giving tithes and offerings, that I may honor you and support your work on earth in Jesus' name.

4.Lord, guard my heart from taking bribes or allowing injustice to flourish. May I always act with integrity and fairness in Jesus' name.

5.O Lord, teach me to bring my firstfruits to you, recognizing that everything I have comes from your gracious hand in Jesus' name.

6.Father,help me to avoid drunkenness and intoxication, that I may live in clarity and purity, pleasing you in all things in Jesus' name.

7.Lord, help me to worship you in spirit and truth, and to serve you alone with all my heart in Jesus' name.

8.Lord Jesus,keep me from sexual immorality, including all forms of perversion, that I may honor you with my body and heart in Jesus' name.

9.Father, I pray that I will never be involved in any form of bestiality, but only honor the sanctity of the relationships you designed in Jesus' name. 

10.Lord, help me not to turn to idols or false practices. May my heart remain faithful to you alone in Jesus' name.

11.Keep me,O Lord, from using your name in vain, or making oaths I do not intend to keep. Teach me to honor you with my words in Jesus' name.

12.Lord, help me to avoid gossip and slander, and to speak only words that build up and encourage others in Jesus' name.

13.Father, cleanse my heart of any hatred or bitterness. Help me to love and forgive others as you have forgiven me in Jesus' name.

14.Lord, I commit to avoid eating anything with blood or taking part in practices that dishonor life. May I always respect the sanctity of life in Jesus' name.

15.Help me,Lord,to avoid marking my body with tattoos, and instead to focus on the beauty of a pure and humble heart in Jesus' name.

16.Father, protect me from the temptation to engage in occult practices or divination. Let your Holy Spirit guide me in Jesus' name.

17.Lord, grant me the grace to honor the elderly and respect those who have walked before me in Jesus' name.

18.O Lord,keep me from ever cursing or dishonoring my parents. Help me to show them love and respect always in Jesus' name.

19.Lord, protect me from marrying those who do not share my faith, and guide me to build relationships based on your truth in Jesus' name.

20.Father, help me to repay no evil for evil, but instead to respond to wrongdoing with love and forgiveness in Jesus' name.

Thank you Lord for answering my prayers in Jesus' name,Amen.