COVENANTS

The word "covenant" means "contract" or "agreement " or a promise to perform. A covenant clearly spells out the responsibilities and benefits of the parties to the contract. In the Bible, when we refer to the covenants we are referring to an agreement God has made with his people. Our part is to obey God's commandments. God's promise is to bless and protect his loyal people and to bless them with an eternal, happy life.

The Bible was not written in English so we have many English translations to use instead. The original Ten Commandments listed in the Old Testament were not numbered so different persons have made attempts to number them into ten groupings. So, as might be expected different lists show different numberings. If you want to read more about translations and grouping go to

Also some persons like to use a synopsis form of the Ten Commandments as a personal memorized checklist. The following is the synopsis I have been using all of my life. You might find it useful.

Tom Plonski            

THE OLD COVENANT:

1. I am the Lord your God. You shall not have strange gods before me.

2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.

3. Remember the Lord's day keep it holy.

4. Honor your father and your mother.

5. You shall not murder.

6. You shall not commit adultery.

7. You shall not steal.

8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

9. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife.

10. You shall not covet your neighbor's possessions.

THE NEW COVENANT:

11. Love one another as I have loved you."

THE MARRIAGE COVENANT:

I take thee ______________ to be my lawfully wedded (husband/wife) , to have and to hold from this day forward for better or worse for richer or poorer in sickness and in health to love and to cherish till death do us part.