Up to this point in Deuteronomy, Moses been reminding the people of their history, from the exodus from Egypt to their arrival on the east side of the Jordan River. They’ve conquered Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings and taken over their land.

Now, at the end of chapter 4, Moses begins his second address to Israel. This begins long review of the law—the stipulations of the covenant God made with Israel on Mt. Sinai. This part of the book extends all the way through chapter 11.

And he begins his second address with a review of the 10 Commandments. The OT lists the 10 Commandments twice—Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5. These 10 Commandments reflect eternal principles of belief and conduct. No one is saved by keeping the 10 Commandments, but they do instruct us regarding what to believe and how to behave. We still should keep the 10 Commandments.

Bible students have recognized that the first four commandments pertain to a proper relationship with God, while the last six pertain to human relationship to each other. Today we’ll look at the first four commandments, and next week, DV, we’ll consider the final six.