Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

God spoke all these words, saying, "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. I rescued you from slavery and led you into a life of freedom.

You shall have no other gods before me, for I alone am your God. Do not create idols that resemble anything in heaven or on earth, for these are false gods and will lead you astray.

Do not bow down to these idols or serve them, for I am a jealous God who punishes the sins of parents upon their children for generations. But I also show mercy to thousands of those who love me and keep my commands.

You shall not misuse my name by taking it in vain, for this is a serious offense that will not be tolerated. Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy, for it is a sacred time set apart for rest and worship.

For six days you shall work and complete all your tasks, but on the seventh day you must not do any work—you, your children, your servants, or even your animals. This is because I rested on the seventh day after creating heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. I blessed that day and made it holy.

Honor your father and mother, for they are the ones who gave you life and nurtured you when you were young.

You shall not murder, commit adultery, steal, or give false testimony against your neighbor. You must respect their marriage, their property, and their reputation.

Do not covet what belongs to others—your neighbor's house, wife, servants, animals, or anything else that is theirs. This will lead you down a path of greed, envy, and selfishness.

As the people trembled at the mountain, they saw the thunder, lightning, and smoke filling the air. They said to Moses, "Speak with us, but do not let God speak directly to us, or we will die from fear."

Moses reassured them, saying, "Do not be afraid, for God has come to test your faithfulness and to reveal his presence before you." The people stood at a distance while Moses approached the thick cloud where God was.

The Lord instructed Moses, "Tell the Israelites that you have seen me speaking with them from heaven. Do not make idols to worship alongside me using silver or gold. Instead, build an earth altar for your burnt and peace offerings, including sheep and oxen. I will come to you in all places where my name is recorded and bless you.

If you want to build a stone altar, use uncut stones, but do not raise a tool against them, lest you desecrate the altar. And when you approach my altar, do not climb it by steps that would expose your nakedness."