Exodus 20:1–17
Sermon on the Ten Commandments: A Picture of God's Heart
"And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt."
— Exodus 20:1–2 (KJV)
Big Idea
The Ten Commandments are not arbitrary rules but the contour of God's character — a covenant given to a redeemed people for their flourishing.
Context
Israel has just been delivered from Egypt. At Sinai, God gives the law to a people already redeemed by blood and a Red Sea crossing. Grace precedes law.
Expository Outline (verse-by-verse)
1. The Preamble: Grace First (v. 1–2)
- •'I am the LORD thy God' — covenant name.
- •'Which have brought thee out' — redemption precedes commandment.
- •Obedience flows from rescue.
2. Commands 1–4: Love God (v. 3–11)
- •No other gods, no idols, no taking His name in vain, keep the Sabbath.
3. Commands 5–10: Love Neighbor (v. 12–17)
- •Honor parents; no murder, adultery, theft, false witness, coveting.
Topical Outline (one big idea)
1. Why the Ten Commandments Still Matter
- •They reveal God's character.
- •They expose our sin.
- •They drive us to Christ.
2. Jesus on the Commandments
- •He did not abolish; He fulfilled.
- •He summarized: love God and neighbor.
- •He deepened: heart, not just hand.
Cross-references
- Deuteronomy 5:6-21 — The commandments restated for the next generation.
- Matthew 22:37-40 — On these two commandments hang all the law.
- Romans 7:7 — I had not known sin, but by the law.
Illustrations
- "A road map doesn't punish you for being lost; it shows you where you are. The law shows us we need a Savior."
Application questions
- Which commandment most exposes you today — and where is Christ's grace sufficient?
Closing prayer
Holy God, Your law is good. We have broken it. Christ has kept it. Save us by Him. Amen.