Luther’s Small Catechism

I am trying to come up with a more modern version of Luther's small Catechism, this is what I have so far. I would like to make this a combined effort. If you have any suggestions, send them to me at bollerud@gci.net I will play around with them and post any good suggestions on Monday the 20th. I am also looking for suggestions for the rest of the small catechism, so if you have something good, let me know and I will share it with others here.

Pastor Dan

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

THE FIRST COMMANDMENT
There is only one God.

What does this mean for us?

God should be first and foremost in our lives, more important than anything else. (Exodus 32)

THE SECOND COMMANDMENT
Do not swear or misuse God’s name.

What does this mean for us?

We are to respect and love God and not to use the name of God to pump ourselves up, bring harm to others or practice deceit. We should however call upon God in all aspects of our lives and thank God always for all we have. (Leviticus 24:10-16)

THE THIRD COMMANDMENT
Keep Sabbath Time.

What does this mean for us?

We are to live in connection with God and set aside time to be with God. Even when busy lives tear us away from Sunday worship, it is important for your spiritual health to find other ways to stay connected to God’s love, God’s word and God’s people. (Luke 10:38-42)

THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT
Show Honor and Respect for parents and those in authority.

What does this mean for us?

We are called to live our lives in such a way that our parents and those in authority would be pleased. Even when you disagree be the best God has called you to be in your family relationships. (Luke 2:41-2)

THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT
Do not take another’s life from them.

What does this mean for us?

We are called to love all of creation and out of self-giving love, care for others and the environment in which they live. Be creative and loving as you find ways to support all of life’s needs. (Genesis 4:1-16)

THE SIXTH COMMANDMENT
Show respect for your relationships.

What does this mean for us?

We are to love one another in our prayers, words and deeds, especially those special relationships in our lives in ways that honor those relationships. We are also to work for health and to help legitimize the relationships of others God has created and called good. (2 Samuel 11)

THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT
Do not take what does not belong to you.

What does this mean for us?

We are to respect our Brothers and Sisters in Christ so that we do not take things from them or find ways to rip them off, sell them false junk or things they don’t need. We are also called to help them maintain and protect their jobs and property. (Joshua 7:1)

THE EIGHTH COMMANDMENT
Do not lie about your friends and neighbors ether in the court or on the street.

What does this mean for us?

We are to show respect for one another so we do not spread false information about them, but rather do our best to put the most positive construction on all we say about one another. If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. (Luke 22:54-62)

THE NINTH COMMANDMENT
You should not crave your neighbor’s house.

What does this mean for us?

We are to respect our God and our Neighbor such that we do not try to swindle others out of their house or property, but help them keep it up and in good shape.

THE TENTH COMMANDMENT
You should not lust after your neighbors spouse or family members or any of your neighbors things.

What does this mean for us?

We are to be respectful around our neighbors family and belongings and conduct ourselves in such a way that help them maintain long term loving and healthy relationships and lifestyles.