Chapter I — On the Commandments of God in general

1. What is treated of in the third part of Christian Doctrine?

In the third part of Christian Doctrine, the Commandments of God and of the Church are treated.

2. How many are the Commandments of the law of God?

The Commandments of the law of God are ten:

I am the Lord thy God:

1. Thou shalt not have other gods before Me.

2. Thou shalt not take the name of God in vain.

3. Remember to keep holy the feast days.

4. Honor thy father and thy mother.

5. Thou shalt not kill.

6. Thou shalt not commit impure acts.

7. Thou shalt not steal.

8. Thou shalt not bear false witness.

9. Thou shalt not desire another's wife.

10. Thou shalt not desire another's goods.

3. Why do the Commandments of God bear this name?

The Commandments of God bear this name because God Himself has impressed them upon the soul of every man, has promulgated them on Mount Sinai in the old law, engraved on two tablets of stone, and Jesus Christ has confirmed them in the new law.

4. Which are the Commandments of the first tablet?

The Commandments of the first tablet are the first three, which regard God directly and the duties we have toward Him.

5. Which are the Commandments of the second tablet?

The Commandments of the second tablet are the last seven, which regard our neighbor and the duties we have toward him.

6. Are we obliged to observe the Commandments?

Yes, we are all obliged to observe the Commandments, because we must all live according to the will of God who created us, and gravely to transgress even a single one suffices to merit hell.

7. Can we observe the Commandments?

We can, without doubt, observe the Commandments of God, because God commands no impossible thing and gives the grace to observe them to whoever asks for it as he ought.

8. What is generally to be considered in each Commandment?

In each Commandment is to be considered the positive part and the negative part, that is, what is commanded of us and what is forbidden.