Article February 23, 1935 Issue

The Commandments and the Beatitudes

WILLIAM P. MC KENZIE

In the introduction to John's Gospel, John the Baptist is spoken of as a man with a message from God. He knew of the light shining in darkness, that is, uncomprehended by men, and his business was to testify regarding "the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." The Gospel affirms the right of mankind to be enlightened regarding sonship with God, and says that those willing to receive the Christ shall be given "power to become the sons of God." From a modern translation is taken the rendering of what follows the above statement: "It was not to natural conception, nor to human instincts, nor to any man's choice, but to God himself that they owed this Life."

Teaching by means of beatitudes is often far beyond the comprehension of what is spoken of as the natural man, the one guided by selfish choice and human instincts; consequently, the first correction or betterment which some need to have comes from the law saying, "Thou shalt not."

By Moses came the Ten Commandments suitable for checking the idolatrous tendencies of the tribal crowd and the following "mixed multitude" he was trying to train and discipline. It was necessary to forbid the disorders of the selfish, unclean, envious, lying, and murderous carnal mentality. In Moses' absence upon Sinai's peak, Aaron made the Israelites an image of gold which they surrounded in lewd and drunken dances. When Moses saw the people in their shame, he felt that police duty was necessary. He "stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord's side?" Then he commissioned the sons of Levi who rallied to him to put in effect the discipline of the sword. Later, rules were given for feasts and sacrifices and ceremonies of reverence for the unseen God; and full directions for the decent behavior of men. Cities of refuge protected the innocent slayer from the avenger of blood. Laws were specifically made to protect the home. There was to be justice to the hireling and charity to the fatherless. The ox was not to be muzzled when treading out the corn. Avarice was rebuked for its injustice, "making the ephah small, and the shekel great," according to the prophet Amos.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
The Mountain Path
February 23, 1935
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit