17. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20)

At the foot of Mount Sinai, in a setting of great majesty, God called Moses to give him the Law that would guide His people. These were not simple rules imposed on them, but a gift of freedom: after bringing them out of slavery in Egypt, God gave them these "ten words" (the Decalogue) to teach them how to live as truly free people. The Ten Commandments are like fences on a path that protect us from falling into the ravine of sin and selfishness.

The first three commandments teach us how we must love God: recognizing Him as the only Lord, respecting His holy name, and setting aside time for rest and worship. The other seven show us how to live in harmony with others: honoring parents, respecting life, purity, truth, and the property of our neighbor. Jesus Christ later summarized this entire Law in a single sentence: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself."

Fulfilling the commandments is not a burden, but a response of love from a child to their Father. God gives them to us because He loves us and knows what truly makes us happy. By following them, we not only improve our relationship with Him but also build a more just and fraternal society. The commandments are the "compass" of our conscience that always points to where good is and helps us maintain our identity as God's chosen people.

Key Points according to the Bible

Law of Freedom: The commandments are the path to avoid becoming slaves to sin again.
The Covenant: Through the Law, God and His people seal a commitment of mutual love.
Natural Law: The commandments embody values that God has placed in the hearts of all people.
Fullness in Christ: Jesus did not come to abolish the Law, but to bring it to its ultimate expression: Love.

Biblical Text

Consult the full biblical text of the Ten Commandments here: USCCB - Exodus Chapter 20

Reflection Activities: Exodus 20

1. Text Comprehension: In what place did God give the Law to Moses, and what is the purpose of these commandments according to the story?

2. Doctrinal Content: In what way does Jesus summarize the ten commandments in the new commandment of love?

3. Catechetical Application: Which commandments do you think are most difficult to follow in today's world, and how can prayer help us stay faithful to God?