The Ten Commandments
Q20. What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not try to take away our neighbor's family or workers, or turn them against our neighbor. Instead, we should encourage them to stay and do what is right.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Proverbs 1:10
“My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.”
2 Samuel 11:2–4
“And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does Luther say we should do instead of turning people against our neighbor?
- 2
Why is it wrong to try to win someone away from their family or friends?
- 3
Have you ever tried to get someone to take your side against another person?
Illustration
A boy is upset with his friend, so he starts whispering to their other friends. "Did you know he said this about you?" He is not just gossiping. He is trying to pull people away from someone else and toward himself. This commandment says: do not break apart what God has put together. Encourage loyalty instead of division.
Application
This week, if you are in a disagreement with a friend or sibling, go to that person directly instead of pulling others into it. Ask God to help you be someone who encourages others to stay faithful in their relationships.
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)