What is the meaning of Luke 18:20? Do not commit adultery “You shall not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14) • God designed marriage as the sole context for sexual intimacy (Genesis 2:24). • Jesus deepens the command by addressing lust in the heart (Matthew 5:27-28). • Faithfulness pictures Christ’s covenant love for His people (Ephesians 5:31-32). Living it out: – Guard heart and eyes (Job 31:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4). – Cultivate contentment and affection within marriage (Proverbs 5:15-18; Hebrews 13:4). do not murder “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13) • Human life bears God’s image (Genesis 9:6). • Jesus equates unrighteous anger with murder’s root (Matthew 5:21-22; 1 John 3:15). • Love fulfills the law by protecting life (Romans 13:9-10). Living it out: – Reject hatred, resentment, and violence (Ephesians 4:31). – Defend the vulnerable and promote life (Proverbs 24:11-12; James 1:27). do not steal “You shall not steal.” (Exodus 20:15) • God entrusts possessions as stewardship, not entitlement (Psalm 24:1). • Taking what is not ours violates neighborly love (Leviticus 19:11). • Transformation in Christ turns takers into givers (Ephesians 4:28). Living it out: – Practice honest work and fair dealings (Proverbs 11:1). – Cultivate generosity toward need (Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 9:7). do not bear false witness “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” (Exodus 20:16) • Truth reflects God’s character (Numbers 23:19; John 14:6). • Lies destroy trust and community (Proverbs 12:22). • Believers are called to transparent speech (Colossians 3:9-10; Ephesians 4:25). Living it out: – Refuse gossip, slander, exaggeration. – Speak words that edify and align with reality (Proverbs 15:4). honor your father and mother “Honor your father and your mother.” (Exodus 20:12) • First command with a promise of blessing (Ephesians 6:2-3). • Respect for parental authority trains the heart for submission to God-ordained order (Hebrews 12:9). • Care for parents in their need displays genuine faith (1 Timothy 5:4). Living it out: – Show gratitude, obedience, and practical care. – Speak honorably of parents even when disagreeing (Proverbs 23:22). summary Jesus cites these five commands to reveal the rich young ruler’s true spiritual condition (Luke 18:21-23). Far from a checklist, each word exposes the heart’s need for repentance and total reliance on Christ. The passage invites us to examine our own obedience, recognize where we fall short, and cling to the Savior who perfectly kept every command on our behalf (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 8:3-4). |
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