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The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life
This insightful exposition of the Ten Commandments demonstrates the wisdom of God's Word for the pressing issues of our day.
424 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 1996
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 6, 2025
J. Douma’s "The Ten Commandments" is a sweeping and incisive exploration of God’s moral law as revealed at Sinai, offering profound insights into its relevance for Christian living today. Douma’s work feels like an invitation to stand with Israel at the base of Mount Sinai, hearing the voice of God echo through the ages, calling His people to holiness. More than a theological treatment, this book is a journey into the heart of covenant life with the Lord.
Douma’s approach is both scholarly and pastoral, blending rigorous exegesis, historical theology, and practical application. Each commandment becomes a window into God’s character and a guide for His people’s life in the world. He masterfully situates the Decalogue within the broader biblical narrative, showing its continuity with God’s redemptive purposes.
The book is structured around the Ten Commandments, with each chapter devoted to a single commandment. Douma draws on an impressive array of sources, including Scripture, Reformed confessions, historical debates, and contemporary issues, providing a robust interpretation of each commandment. His extensive engagement with voices from church history enriches his analysis, balancing theological depth with practical relevance for modern life.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to apply the moral law to contemporary challenges. Douma’s treatment of the fourth commandment (honoring the Sabbath) is deeply rooted in the Reformed tradition yet refreshingly relevant. He avoids the extremes of legalism and antinomianism, presenting the Sabbath as a gift rather than a burden. His reflections on rest and worship challenge the hyperactivity of modern culture, offering a Christ centered vision of Sabbath delight.
The sixth commandment (prohibiting murder) provides another standout moment. Douma expands the scope of this command to address issues like abortion, euthanasia, and even ecological responsibility. His rigorous and wide ranging application calls Christians to cherish life in every form and context, reflecting the sanctity of God’s creation.
Douma’s tone carries pastoral urgency, reflecting his deep concern for the holiness of God’s people and the integrity of their witness in the world. His arguments, grounded in Scripture and tradition, retain an accessibility that invites engagement from both pastors and lay readers. This work is as fitting for pastoral libraries as it is for lay discipleship.
Despite its many strengths, parts of the book may feel dense for readers unfamiliar with Reformed theology. Douma assumes a certain familiarity with catechisms and confessions, which, while enriching his analysis, could alienate a broader audience. Furthermore, as a product of Dutch academia in the 20th century, the book frequently cites sources available only in Dutch, making almost impossible for more casual readers (like myself) to follow his work.
Douma’s cultural engagement occasionally feels overly permissive. For example, his treatment of the second commandment (prohibiting idolatry) adopts a softer stance on images than many within the Reformed tradition might expect. While he critiques the use of images in worship, his reluctance to take a firmer position seems to undermine the sharpness of Reformed teaching on God’s revealed will.
The seventh commandment (prohibiting adultery) is another area of concern. Douma’s discussion of pornography, though realistic about its pervasive presence, strikes an oddly flippant tone. Describing it as “a fact of life” and “an unfortunate but necessary part of growing up” minimizes the profound harm pornography inflicts on individuals, families, and society. A more urgent condemnation would have better served this chapter.
Additionally, the book’s publication in the 1970s limits its engagement with contemporary issues. While Douma’s principles are timeless, his focus on then current debates, such as nuclear warfare, may feel less relevant to modern readers. Conversely, the absence of dialogue on pressing modern challenges, like digital ethics or social justice, highlights the need for a contemporary companion to this work.
One of the most compelling aspects of Douma’s work is his engagement with Reformed covenant theology. He demonstrates how the moral law is not merely a rule of life but a reflection of God’s immutable character and a continuation of His covenant relationship with His people. This covenantal framework enriches Douma’s exploration, situating each commandment within the grand narrative of redemption.
J. Douma’s "The Ten Commandments" is a rich, challenging, and deeply edifying work that calls Christians to live as a holy people under Christ’s Lordship. It reminds us that the law is not a burden but a delight, reflecting God’s perfect character and guiding us toward true flourishing.
While some cultural liberties and dated aspects of the book warrant careful consideration, Douma’s insights into the Decalogue are profound. His engagement with the Reformed tradition’s emphases on the covenants and the law is particularly brilliant, illuminating how these pillars inform faithful Christian living.
This is not a casual read. It demands thoughtful engagement and theological reflection. Yet for those willing to take up the challenge, "The Ten Commandments" offers profound insights into the beauty of God’s moral law and its enduring relevance. Despite its limitations, it is a work I will revisit often not only as a theological resource but as a spiritual guide. Douma’s book invites readers to wrestle with what it means to live faithfully in an ever changing world, rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.
A day is quickly coming when Christ shall return. The law will be made manifest and no longer will we struggle to uphold the law. But until that blessed day, may Douma’s work help us navigate what it means to live faithful lives in our present context. Come quickly Lord, Jesus. Amen.
Douma’s approach is both scholarly and pastoral, blending rigorous exegesis, historical theology, and practical application. Each commandment becomes a window into God’s character and a guide for His people’s life in the world. He masterfully situates the Decalogue within the broader biblical narrative, showing its continuity with God’s redemptive purposes.
The book is structured around the Ten Commandments, with each chapter devoted to a single commandment. Douma draws on an impressive array of sources, including Scripture, Reformed confessions, historical debates, and contemporary issues, providing a robust interpretation of each commandment. His extensive engagement with voices from church history enriches his analysis, balancing theological depth with practical relevance for modern life.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to apply the moral law to contemporary challenges. Douma’s treatment of the fourth commandment (honoring the Sabbath) is deeply rooted in the Reformed tradition yet refreshingly relevant. He avoids the extremes of legalism and antinomianism, presenting the Sabbath as a gift rather than a burden. His reflections on rest and worship challenge the hyperactivity of modern culture, offering a Christ centered vision of Sabbath delight.
The sixth commandment (prohibiting murder) provides another standout moment. Douma expands the scope of this command to address issues like abortion, euthanasia, and even ecological responsibility. His rigorous and wide ranging application calls Christians to cherish life in every form and context, reflecting the sanctity of God’s creation.
Douma’s tone carries pastoral urgency, reflecting his deep concern for the holiness of God’s people and the integrity of their witness in the world. His arguments, grounded in Scripture and tradition, retain an accessibility that invites engagement from both pastors and lay readers. This work is as fitting for pastoral libraries as it is for lay discipleship.
Despite its many strengths, parts of the book may feel dense for readers unfamiliar with Reformed theology. Douma assumes a certain familiarity with catechisms and confessions, which, while enriching his analysis, could alienate a broader audience. Furthermore, as a product of Dutch academia in the 20th century, the book frequently cites sources available only in Dutch, making almost impossible for more casual readers (like myself) to follow his work.
Douma’s cultural engagement occasionally feels overly permissive. For example, his treatment of the second commandment (prohibiting idolatry) adopts a softer stance on images than many within the Reformed tradition might expect. While he critiques the use of images in worship, his reluctance to take a firmer position seems to undermine the sharpness of Reformed teaching on God’s revealed will.
The seventh commandment (prohibiting adultery) is another area of concern. Douma’s discussion of pornography, though realistic about its pervasive presence, strikes an oddly flippant tone. Describing it as “a fact of life” and “an unfortunate but necessary part of growing up” minimizes the profound harm pornography inflicts on individuals, families, and society. A more urgent condemnation would have better served this chapter.
Additionally, the book’s publication in the 1970s limits its engagement with contemporary issues. While Douma’s principles are timeless, his focus on then current debates, such as nuclear warfare, may feel less relevant to modern readers. Conversely, the absence of dialogue on pressing modern challenges, like digital ethics or social justice, highlights the need for a contemporary companion to this work.
One of the most compelling aspects of Douma’s work is his engagement with Reformed covenant theology. He demonstrates how the moral law is not merely a rule of life but a reflection of God’s immutable character and a continuation of His covenant relationship with His people. This covenantal framework enriches Douma’s exploration, situating each commandment within the grand narrative of redemption.
J. Douma’s "The Ten Commandments" is a rich, challenging, and deeply edifying work that calls Christians to live as a holy people under Christ’s Lordship. It reminds us that the law is not a burden but a delight, reflecting God’s perfect character and guiding us toward true flourishing.
While some cultural liberties and dated aspects of the book warrant careful consideration, Douma’s insights into the Decalogue are profound. His engagement with the Reformed tradition’s emphases on the covenants and the law is particularly brilliant, illuminating how these pillars inform faithful Christian living.
This is not a casual read. It demands thoughtful engagement and theological reflection. Yet for those willing to take up the challenge, "The Ten Commandments" offers profound insights into the beauty of God’s moral law and its enduring relevance. Despite its limitations, it is a work I will revisit often not only as a theological resource but as a spiritual guide. Douma’s book invites readers to wrestle with what it means to live faithfully in an ever changing world, rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.
A day is quickly coming when Christ shall return. The law will be made manifest and no longer will we struggle to uphold the law. But until that blessed day, may Douma’s work help us navigate what it means to live faithful lives in our present context. Come quickly Lord, Jesus. Amen.
May 29, 2025
A helpful exposition of the Ten Commandments. I will definitely be returning to this volume in the future when I preach through the Commandments.
My chief critique is that Douma's exposition on the Fourth Commandment is organized in a confusing way. It seems like Douma adopts a more dialectic approach to that Commandment, which leaves the reader guessing as to what he actually thinks to the end of the chapter.
My chief critique is that Douma's exposition on the Fourth Commandment is organized in a confusing way. It seems like Douma adopts a more dialectic approach to that Commandment, which leaves the reader guessing as to what he actually thinks to the end of the chapter.
October 17, 2019
Great read and careful treatment. Not exhaustive, but still a great and extensive resource for study on the 10 commandments.
August 6, 2016
Good for what it is. I would like to see something from another perspective. Book can be tedious in some places.
May 14, 2014
A pretty good overview of ethics centered around the Ten Commandments. It's not perfect and it doesn't interact with other perspectives as much as it could, but still solid all around.
October 10, 2019
Pros: very thorough, perhaps the most thorough book on the 10 Commandments that I've encountered. Each commandment is discussed not only in relation to what scripture explicitly forbids, but in relation to other related, ethical issues (particularly in the modern age). There's also an excellent essay in the appendix, entitled 'the use of scripture in ethics.'
Cons: a lack of theological emphasis, insufficient consideration of the context (redemptive-historical context particularly, but also the original OT context), and almost no discussion of Christological fulfillment/implications. Also, the connection between some of the ethical issues discussed and the actual commandment under consideration can often be tenuous. And generally speaking, the author sees too much continuity between OT Israel and the NT church, leading to what can sometimes be a very law-centered application that doesn't do justice to the realities of the New and better covenant.
Regardless, this is a helpful and necessary resource for a thorough study of the commandments, and there are definitely some gold nuggets to be found within.
Cons: a lack of theological emphasis, insufficient consideration of the context (redemptive-historical context particularly, but also the original OT context), and almost no discussion of Christological fulfillment/implications. Also, the connection between some of the ethical issues discussed and the actual commandment under consideration can often be tenuous. And generally speaking, the author sees too much continuity between OT Israel and the NT church, leading to what can sometimes be a very law-centered application that doesn't do justice to the realities of the New and better covenant.
Regardless, this is a helpful and necessary resource for a thorough study of the commandments, and there are definitely some gold nuggets to be found within.
April 20, 2018
This book is practical and nevertheless detailed. If you want to have a study of the Ten Commandments in which a lot of ethical and (interestingly enough) hermeneutical issues are raised and competently discussed, this would be the book. It is not a philosophical approach (Aquinas, for example, will say that envy is a kind of sadness, and Douma will not approach anything with similar wonder), which has its disadvantages but is obviously advantageous for other purposes.
The chapter on the first commandment is thin, but after that the book hits its stride and it is amazing how many things Douma does touch on and handles with intelligent consideration. One of the best things about this book is that Douma’s proceeding is always deliberative, suspending judgment, bringing in a range of considerations before drawing his conclusions. Nobody is going to agree with all his conclusions, obviously, but they are still worth considering. It is full of good, biblical, reformed reflections on ethics and Christian conduct.
The chapter on the first commandment is thin, but after that the book hits its stride and it is amazing how many things Douma does touch on and handles with intelligent consideration. One of the best things about this book is that Douma’s proceeding is always deliberative, suspending judgment, bringing in a range of considerations before drawing his conclusions. Nobody is going to agree with all his conclusions, obviously, but they are still worth considering. It is full of good, biblical, reformed reflections on ethics and Christian conduct.
August 22, 2017
Really helped me see the wide sweeping implications of the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments are really the best way to frame Christian Ethics and now understand why many reformed confessions spend so much time on them.
November 19, 2025
A comprehensive and practical treatment of the 10 commandments. Douma makes an effort to give relevant application, which makes this a mostly engaging read but also means you're reading relevant application for the 1990's.
October 11, 2020
Basically a Biblical theology of the Ten Commandments and their moral implications. A new favorite.
May 13, 2021
A very good book for anyone wanting to dig deeper into the place the decalogue has in the life of Christians today.
June 19, 2021
An excellent book outlining our understanding of the Decalogue as our basis for all Christian ethics and life. Even non-Presbyterian/Reformed readers could get a lot out of this book.
Read
February 19, 2023Read as prep for teaching Old Testament Survey.
August 9, 2023
Ends up in some weird places ethically from time to time. However, he asks good questions and truly does his best to get to a practical answer.
January 11, 2024
Read for class, but thoroughly enjoyed this more modern commentary on the Ten Commandments.
February 6, 2017
The substance is solid, but at times I think the translation from the Dutch makes it a stiff or difficult read. I don't agree with everything in it (particularly some of the explication of the 10th Commandment ("Thou shalt not covet"). The Appendix also makes the common error of mischaracterizing Christian Reconstruction.
February 13, 2014
Decent, with some discussions being very good, others weak. I think the main failure was that Douma seemed to assume that many changes that modernity has brought (secular states, democracy etc.) is either unquestionably neutral or even good. Thus the law simply needs to be appropriated to this new context. He does not discuss whether or how the law makes us question the validity or goodness of these changes.
August 31, 2015
More in depth look at the Ten Commandments than many other books out there. Douma highlights areas within each commandment that you may not have given much thought to causing you to wrestle through the issue whether you find yourself agreeing with him or not. It is a translated work but done well overall and I would highly recommend it.
May 23, 2012
Very thought provoking in places and solidly biblical. However, the writing style leaves much to be desired and could cause confusion. Also, the author definitely pushes the envelope beyond the biblical grounds in certain places. Not the first place I'd go for a book on ethics.
April 22, 2009
awesome. made the 10 commandements even more relevant
April 6, 2021
A very helpful exposition of the commandments. It is well-worth your time.
October 1, 2012
An excellent work on the Ten Commandments. Highly recommended.
July 27, 2016
Good. Very detailed, and written at an academic level. Goes through each commandment.
Also has an appendix reflecting on how to use Scripture to answer ethical questions.
Also has an appendix reflecting on how to use Scripture to answer ethical questions.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews