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Christian “Commandments”

Some Christians try to define Christianity in terms of what is and is not allowed. For example, smoking, drinking, going to movies or playing cards are sometimes put forth as prohibited activities. Sometimes these restrictive measures are made with the best of intentions. However, a what might be called “legalist” approach to Christianity can actually divert people from Christ like the rule following of the Pharisees (Matt 15:9) which even made them hostile to Christ.

There are admonitions and exhortations made of Christians, but they are less specific requirements than they are principles that we are to learn how to incorporate into our daily lives.

1. Love one another. (Rom 12:10)

2. Don’t live for yourself (2 Cor 5:15)

3. Don’t be conformed to the world (Rom 12:2)

4. Be thankful (Col 3:15)

5. Walk by the Spirit and not the flesh (Gal 5:15-16)

6. Be peaceful if possible (Rom 12:18)

7. Have the mind of Christ (humility) (Phil 2:5-7)

8. Work quietly and industriously (1 Thess 4:11-12)

9. Put “on” Christ (Gal 3:27)

10. Put “on” virtue (Col 3:12)

11. Make no provision for the flesh (Rom 13:14)

12. Be filled with the knowledge of God’s will (Col 1:9)

13. Pray (1 Thess 5:17)

14. Prove or test all things (1 Thess 5:21)

From this partial list we can see that it is not as specific as the law which was given to Israel. The law was not possible to keep and served to show those of Israel that they needed a Savior (Gal 3:24-25). For Christians today, we are placed into the body of Christ and are sealed with his Spirit. Israel was to demonstrate their faith by keeping the law. Christians can remain immature (babes, 1 Cor 3:1). However, there is an expectation that Christians should desire to grow in their faith.

Christians can consider that they have met some “Christian” requirements such as learning the Catechism, being baptized, tithing, saying a prayer, being the member of a church, etc. The problem is that these accomplishments are similar to how the Pharisees saw themselves, as complete.

There can be an element of pride that is fostered in an accomplishment system. If allowed to grow, it can lead to contempt for others (Luke 18:9). The “commandments” for Christians are more things to be kept in mind when considering what words to say or what actions to take. They are less a checklist for accomplishment than a reminder of how we should be living.

It is important for Christians to by immersed in God’s word (the bible) so that the numerous admonitions and exhortations continuously work to influence our daily lives.

Information about Christianity and the Christian life.