The Decalogue: Living as the People of God

David L. Baker gives us a rare and valuable study of the Decalogue, or Ten Commandments, within its biblical and ancient Near Eastern setting. In addition to an informative discussion of introductory and background issues, he gives each commandment focused attention, offering expert commentary as well as considering its meaning for today.

• Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Top Shelf Book Cover Award 2017

The Ten Commandments, or Decalogue, have long been a pillar of Western law and culture. In more recent times they have been a point of controversy in the public square. But on closer scrutiny the commandments are particularly addressed to the people of God. In the exodus narrative, their revelation on Mount Sinai is framed in symbols of awe—fire, smoke, and blaring trumpets. To this centerpiece of Sinai, David L. Baker brings his extensive research and reflection. Setting each commandment within its ancient Near Eastern setting, he clearly backlights their cultural profile. Then, within their covenantal framework, he illuminates their biblical-theological meaning. Finally, viewing each commandment in light of our contemporary setting, he reflects on how they cut against the cultural grain and shed light on our pathway as the people of God. The result is a focused commentary on the Decalogue. For anyone studying the Decalogue and Old Testament ethics—students or laypeople, teachers or preachers—this book is an indispensable guide to the "ten words" God delivered at Sinai.