The Ten Commandments are some of the most well-known parts of the Bible. Written on stone tablets and given to Moses, they include instructions like "Do not steal," "Do not lie," and "Honor your father and mother." But do Christians still follow them today?
The answer is: yes—but not in the way some might think.
A Foundation, Not a Checklist
Christians believe the Ten Commandments are part of God's eternal wisdom. They reveal what is good, just, and loving. But Christianity isn’t about checking off a list of rules to earn God’s favor. Christians believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus—not through perfect obedience to the law.
That said, the Commandments still matter. They shape Christian values and provide a moral compass. Jesus even summarized the heart behind them:
"Love the Lord your God... and love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (Matthew 22:37–40)
Fulfilled, Not Erased
When Jesus came, He didn’t cancel the Ten Commandments—He fulfilled them. He showed what it looked like to live them out with love, grace, and deeper purpose.
For example:
"Do not murder" became a call to not even harbor hate.
"Do not commit adultery" extended to not even lust in the heart.
"Do not steal" became a call to live generously and honestly.
Jesus raised the standard from rule-following to heart transformation.
Spirit, Not Just Letter
Christians believe the Holy Spirit helps them live out the truth behind the Ten Commandments—not because they must, but because they want to.
It’s not legalism—it’s relationship. The commandments aren’t just about obedience. They’re about reflecting God’s character and showing love for others.
So, Do Christians Follow Them?
Yes—but they follow them as part of a bigger story.
They don’t follow the Ten Commandments to become Christian. They follow them because they are Christian. The commandments serve as a guide—not a gate.
Ultimately, Christians believe that living in step with God’s ways brings peace, integrity, and love. The Ten Commandments help remind them of that path.
In Short: The Ten Commandments are still deeply respected by Christians. But instead of being rules that must be followed to earn God’s love, they are expressions of a life shaped by God’s love already received.