The Eighth Commandment

Sermon: The Eighth Commandment, Heidelberg Catechism, Lord's Day 42, Questions 110-111, Philippians 4:10-20
John H. Johnson, Tyler Orthodox Presbyterian Church
2023-02-26

HEIDELBERG CATECHISM
PART 3: OUR THANKFULNESS: LORD'S DAY 32-52
LORD'S DAY 42: Questions 110-111

Q110. What does God forbid in the eighth commandment?
A. God forbids not only outright theft and robbery[1] but also such wicked schemes and devices as false weights and measures, deceptive merchandising, counterfeit money, and usury;[2] we must not defraud our neighbour in any way, whether by force or by show of right.[3] In addition God forbids all greed[4] and all abuse or squandering of His gifts.[5]
[1] Ex. 22:1; I Cor. 5:9, 10; 6:9, [2] Deut. 25:13-16; Ps. 15:5; Prov. 11:1; 12:22; Ezek. 45:9-12; Luke 6:35. [3] Mic. 6:9-11; Luke 3:14; James 5:1-6. [4] Luke 12:15; Eph. 5:5. [5] Prov. 21:20; 23:20, 21; Luke 16:10-13.

Q111. What does God require of you in this commandment?
A. I must promote my neighbour's good wherever I can and may, deal with him as I would like others to deal with me, and work faithfully so that I may be able to give to those in need.[1]
[1] Is. 58:5-10; Matt. 7:12; Gal. 6:9, 10; Eph. 4:28.