Lesson #40—God’s Moral Law Revealed

Shorter Catechism Q & A #40

Q. What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience?

A. The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the moral law.

Memorize Q & A—Exposition

We all walk by the same rule, the same standard of faith and practice (Phil. 3:16). We look to God’s Word, especially to his moral law, precepts, and teachings, that his glory may be then manifested in our obedience. [Neh. 9:13]

What does it mean?

The word reveal tells us that it is God alone who unveils the truth of how man shall live as being made after his image. It is God who “reveals his secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). Paul is moved by the Spirit to write, “But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God” (1 Cor. 2:10). Discuss the moral law in light of Rom. 2:14–15; Rom. 5:6; Psa. 119:159–160. We are called to obey the moral law because He is the Author.

What is our practice?

We must be faithful listeners and doers of the law. We must be ready to repent as sin is revealed in us. We must be ready to forgive others as we have been forgiven. We must remember the law and teach it to our children and children’s children. If God is our Father, we ought to then be such a father to our children.

The elders of the Church ought to have that willing heart to feed the flock of the Good Shepherd [with an eye out for those little ones who have not a father to teach them.]

Quotes for thought and discussion:

“If God spake all these words, then teach your children the law of God. ‘These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart, and thou shalt teach the diligently unto thy children.’ Deut 6:6, 7. He who is godly, is both a diamond and a loadstone: a diamond for the sparkling of his grace, and a loadstone for his attractive virtue in drawing others to the love of God’s precepts. …[a good man benefits others more than himself]. You that are parents, discharge your duty. Though you cannot impart grace to your children, yet you may impart knowledge. Let your children know the commandments of God. ‘Ye shall teach them your children.’ Deut 11:19. You are careful to leave your children a portion: leave the oracles of heaven with them; instruct them in the law of God. If God spake all these words, you may well speak them over again to your children.” (Thomas Watson)

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