Overview
Each of the studies in this guide by Rob Suggs looks at one of God's commandments and a Bible passage that will help you better understand how to apply God's law. As you study these laws, you will encounter God himself.
Introduction
Getting the Most Out of The Ten Commandments
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.
Session One
Laying Down the Law
Focus on the picture of God in the first four commandments. How might you need to adjust your image of God to fit with what these commands tell us about who God is?
Exodus 20
Session Two
The One and Only
For his confrontation, Elijah deliberately chooses Mount Carmel, a location commonly used for the worship of Baal—in other words, Baal's own "turf." What are some possible contexts in which the gods of this world can be confronted and challenged today?
1 Kings 18:16–39
Session Three
Idol Minds
What apparently causes the Israelites to yearn for new gods? When have you experienced yearnings similar to those of the Israelites?
Exodus 32
Session Four
Respect for the Name
Why would we praise God's name, as opposed to simply praising God? How should evangelism and missions influence us in the proper use of God's name?
Psalm 96
Session Five
Respect for Sabbath Rest
What do you think it means to keep the Sabbath holy? What does this commandment imply about the relationship between God and humanity?
Psalm 16
Session Six
Respect for Parents
What sacrifices does Ruth make in her commitment to stay with Naomi? What fears or anxieties have you faced concerning sacrifices you may need to make for your parents?
Ruth 1:1–18
Session Seven
Respect for Life
Why is David's conscience stricken after he cuts off Saul's robe? What is the relationship between humility and respect for life??
1 Samuel 24
Session Eight
Respect for Marriage
We know that David was generally righteous and even "a man after God's own heart." How do you account for his behavior? What factors do you think contribute to widespread adultery in our times?
2 Samuel 11
Session Nine
Respect for Property
What was the importance and place of possessions in the early Christian community? What possessions do you guard most carefully, and why?
Acts 4:32–5:11
Session Ten
Respect for the Truth
Of all sins, lying is the one most identified with the devil. Why do you think this is so? Who is the most truthful person you know? What do you like about him or her?
Proverbs 12
Session Eleven
The Value of Contentment
Contentment implies a settled acceptance of what we already have. How can this be called gain?
1 Timothy 6:3–10
Session Twelve
The Law of Grace
How does the law make us conscious of sin? When has Scripture brought home to you that a particular action or attitude was sin, though you previously excused it?
Romans 3:9–31
Leader's Guide
This section includes information on preparing and leading studies, components of small groups, selected discussion questions, and background notes and suggestions for each study.
Total number of pages—78 pages
Rob Suggs, a former cartoonist, served for several years as a senior editor at Walk Through the Bible Ministries. He is also the author of the LifeGuide Bible Study Christian Community.
