The Ten Words (Part 1): No One Else

TO START: In The Ten Words series, we explore the personal and practical foundations God gives in the Exodus story, often known as the Ten Commandments. In the first message, we tackle the common misconceptions that the commandments are rigid, irrelevant, or imposed rules. The Ten Words, as they are called in the Bible, are not a way of receiving or earning God’s love and care. The Ten Words show the foundations of life with God after receiving His saving redemption and reveal how personal, practical, and close the Lord wants to be in our everyday life.

TO READ: Exodus 20:1-2

TO DISCUSS:

(1.) What’s a funny misunderstanding you had as a kid about how something worked or what something meant?

(2.) As you read Exodus 20:1–17, which of the Ten Words (ten commandments) feels most familiar to you and which one feels least talked about?

(3.) What do you think is the significance of God declaring His identity and His saving action before giving His first instruction in Exodus 20:1–2?

(4.) If someone asked why the Ten Words (ten commandments) in Exodus 20:1-17 still matter for someone following Jesus today, how would you respond?

(5.) In God’s story, revival often comes when His people rediscover His instructions and find joy in living into them. Looking at all Ten Words (ten commandments), which one do you feel most needs renewal in your life?

TO CLOSE/TO PRAY: 

Leader: “Before God gave instructions, He gave relationship. Let’s quiet our hearts and remember who God is.” (Pause 30 seconds)

Leader (reads Exodus 20:1–2): “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” 

Leader: “As you think about the Ten Words, quietly ask God to show you one area where He wants to bring renewal—not guilt, but freedom.” – (Pause 1 min)

Leader: Invite anyone who sensed an area to name it out loud in prayer. 

Leader: Close with a prayer like this, “God, thank you that your commands come from love, not control. Help us live as people who are already redeemed and learning to trust you.”