God of Justice: A Look at the Ten Commandments for the 21st Century

With the Ten Commandments such an integral part of today's "culture wars," it would seem to be a safe assumption that most people are familiar with what the commandments actually say. Yet many surveys indicate otherwise -- and even when people can name all of the commandments, they often misinterpret their meaning.

For example:

• "Do not take the Lord's name in vain" has nothing to do with avoiding getting one's mouth washed out with soap;
• "Remember the sabbath day" is not about going to church;
• "Honor your father and mother" is not a way to get recalcitrant kids to clean up their rooms;
• and despite what most folks think, "You shall not commit adultery" is not primarily about sex In God of Justice, David Leininger sets the record straight with a new look at this ancient document. He examines the commandments in the context of today's social, cultural, and political environment -- and he concludes that rather than the traditional view of them as ironclad laws, the commandments are actually God's policy statements about what is the bedrock of a good, decent, and just society. When properly understood, the commandments offer God's guidance in establishing a healthy way of life that is rewarding for everyone. With discussion questions included for each chapter, God of Justice is an excellent study resource for adult classes -- and clear and accessible reading that will be stimulating and rewarding for any thoughtful Christian. David E. Leininger is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Warren, Pennsylvania. He has also served congregations in North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Prior to entering the ministry, Leininger worked for almost twenty years in radio and television. He is the author of A Color-Blind Church and Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit (Series VI, Cycle A), and his sermons have appeared in the Best Sermons 4 anthology (Harper-Collins). Leininger has also been a contributing writer for the online services StoryShare and The Immediate Word (www.sermonsuite.com).