Exodus 20

The preface to the ten commandments, Exodus 20:1 , Exodus 20:2 . The First commandment, against mental or theoretic idolatry, Exodus 20:3 . The Second, against making and worshipping images, or practical idolatry, Exodus 20:4-6 . The Third, against false swearing, blasphemy, and irreverent use of the name of God, Exodus 20:7 . The Fourth, against profanation of the Sabbath, and idleness on the other days of the week, Exodus 20:8-11 . The Fifth, against disrespect and disobedience to parents, Exodus 20:12 . The Sixth, against murder and cruelty, Exodus 20:13 . The Seventh, against adultery and uncleanness, Exodus 20:14 . The Eighth, against stealing and dishonesty, Exodus 20:15 . The Ninth, against false testimony, perjury, etc., Exodus 20:16 . The Tenth, against covetousness, Exodus 20:17 . The people are alarmed at the awful appearance of God on the mount, and stand afar off, Exodus 20:18 . They pray that Moses may be mediator between God and them, Exodus 20:19 . Moses encourages them, Exodus 20:20 . He draws near to the thick darkness, and God communes with him, Exodus 20:21 , Exodus 20:22 . Farther directions against idolatry, Exodus 20:23 . Directions concerning making an altar of earth, Exodus 20:24 ; and an altar of hewn stone, Exodus 20:25 . None of these to be ascended by steps, and the reason given, Exodus 20:26 .