The Eighth Word: Responsibility (Exodus 20:15)
The Lord introduces a radical new concept: personal property rights for everyone. But how can he enforce such radical equality in such a radically unequal world?
The Lord introduces a radical new concept: personal property rights for everyone. But how can he enforce such radical equality in such a radically unequal world?
The Lord changes subjects yet again and starts talking about words instead of actions. But why? Don’t actions speak louder than words?
The Lord ends his speech with a final change of subject: a regulation of individual psychology. But is that really fair?
As God’s people realise, to their horror, that they have no hope of keeping his law, God offers them a hint at the atonement to come, and the promise of his eternal presence with them.
The Lord continues his conversation with Moses, unpacking the practical implications of the Fourth and the Eighth commandments.
God unpacks the implications of the Sixth Commandment: justice is important, but it must be measured out with equal reverence for all human life.
God unpacks the implications of the Eighth Commandment: restitution must be measured out according to the harm done, not according to the status of the people involved.
God double-clicks on the Ninth Commandment, and reveals that true worship must result in social justice among his people.
The Lord continues to expand upon the connection between true worship and true social justice — not just in the courtroom, but in business.
God finishes his dictation by explaining how true worship will lead his people all the way home.