There are so many commands in the Bible. We find them in both the Old and New Testaments. But do they still apply to God’s people today? And if so, which ones? This post will equip you with the basic knowledge and tools you need to correctly handle, understand and apply God’s commands for His people. 

What is a command?

According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, “to commands” (verb) means “to direct authoritatively” or “to exercise a dominating influence over.” The noun refers to “an order given” or “control of something.”

The meaning of a biblical command is similar. The Greek word often translated “command” means “to order, to command; an injunction; given by a superior.”

Here’s a definition I found on BibleHub: 

In the biblical context, the term “command” refers to directives or orders given by God, Jesus Christ, or appointed leaders, which are meant to be obeyed by the faithful. Commands are integral to the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as expressions of His will and character.  

Usually, it’s easy to spot a command in Scripture. (Also see “Helpful Characteristics of Good Bible Observation” and “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study.”) These verbs give specific direction for the reader. For instance, we see two commands (in bold) from Paul in the verse below. 

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.  Galatians 5:1 ESV

A Resource to Help

An interlinear Bible, a resource which shows the original Greek or Hebrew alongside the English translation, can help us determine whether a verb is a command. Do this by checking the verb’s “mood” and “tense.” 

The “mood” of a Greek verb shows the speaker’s “attitude.” For instance, the imperative mood indicates a command rather than a factual statement or a wish. The tense of the verb determines the kind of action, whether it is ongoing, completed, or simple. 

BlueLetterBible.org provides a free interlinear Bible among its tools. Look up a Bible passage, click on tools, then “Interlinear.” The far right column provides the parsing of each word or phrase. Click on the colored button to get more information including the tense and the mood. (Also see “Resources to Study the Bible’s Greek and Hebrew Words.”)

Why is it important to obey God’s Commands?

You ever wonder why evil, trouble, and pain fill the world? It all began when the first man and woman disobeyed God’s first command (Genesis 2:16-17). God’s commands are for our good and His glory. Obedience keeps us in the center of His will and purposes. Disobedience not only puts us in opposition to God and His will, it also usually results in painful consequences. 

God’s commands flow from His character and purposes. He gives commands so that the character, attitudes, and behaviors of His people will reflect His own. Without God’s divine guidance we would instead display our own sinful desires and fallen nature.

When everyone chooses our own way, we are at odds with God and each other. Acting to fulfill our own desires, we scramble over each other. The result is sinful chaos and discord. But it’s not supposed to be like that. God calls His people to obedience. 

In John 15, Jesus painted a word picture of a grapevine to help us understand what it means to “abide” in Him, to enjoy a continuous, unbroken fellowship with Him. He also said this intimate relationship would be characterized by obedience. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love. (John 15:10). If we want to fully experience the relationship for which we were created, then we will obey our Creator.

Are all Commands in the Bible still Applicable to Us Today?

Some commands in Scripture were given to a specific person or people in a specific time and set of circumstances. These have little to no relevance to us today. Paul’s command to Timothy, recorded in 2 Timothy 4:13, is a prime example:

When you come, bring the cloak I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books and above all the parchments.

Still others are not directly applicable but are founded on spiritual principles that are timeless and do apply. For instance, in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church, he commanded them to expel an unrepentant member who was having an affair with his stepmother (1 Corinthians 5:1-13). While our church likely won’t experience this exact set of circumstances, there are underlying principles of holiness and church discipline that we should obey.

Many other commands in the Bible are eternally relevant and directly applicable. For instance, This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you (John 15:12 ESV). Also, Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8 ESV).

Three Guidelines to Help Us Understand

Let’s get practical. The following guidelines will help determine if and how a biblical command is still relevant for us today.

1. Culture – The Bible reflects languages, times, mores, and societies very different than ours today. Many of the commands found in Scripture are rooted in and shaped by the culture in which they were given. Consider how much the command is connected to the biblical culture and whether those elements still exist today. For instance, In Ephesians 6:5-9 Paul addresses how masters and slaves should treat one another. These commands do not reflect our culture and are not directly applicable. However, we can determine and apply the foundational principles about relationships. (Also see “How to Find Timeless Principles in Scripture” and “Consider the Historical and Cultural Context.”)
2. Context – Many commands cannot stand apart from the historical situation and specific circumstances in which they were given. For instance, through an angel God commanded Joseph to flee to Egypt to protect the infant Jesus from Herod (Matthew 2:13). Consider to whom the command was given and determine the specific circumstances surrounding it. Ask if these circumstances exist among God’s people today? If not, determine if there is an underlying principle that can be applied.
3. Covenant – We need to consider whether a command was given under the Old Covenant or the New Covenant. Much of the Mosaic Law was given for civil and liturgical purposes and is not applicable to us today. But some, like the moral commands “Do not murder” and “Do not commit adultery” are grounded in the character of God and are just as relevant to us today. Also see “How to Understand the Old Testament Law” for help distinguishing the different types of laws and for tips in understanding and applying them.

What about you?

We’ve covered a lot in this post! But to sum it up, we must never ignore a command we see in Scripture. We should always consider how it is applicable to us today. If a command is grounded in God’s character and purposes and reflects the teaching of Christ then we must seek to apply it either directly or through the underlying timeless principle. 

Is there a command in Scripture you’ve wondered about? Let’s chat about it!