8. What is the purpose of the Ten Commandments?

The triune God created humanity to participate in Their fellowship, acceptance, and holiness. That oneness is based on the principles of love that are the very fabric of God’s Ten Commandments. JTL18 10.1

As the expression of God’s character and love, the Ten Commandments reveal His will and purpose for humanity. They are the basis of God’s covenant—His promise to be our faithful God if we will be His faithful people. The law regulates our conscience and sets the standard of righteousness. This is important, because our conscience can become warped or seared if it is not set by God’s great standard—His law. JTL18 10.2

The law, then, points out sin in our lives, shows us our true condition, and serves as an agent to lead us to Jesus, our Savior. The law becomes the instrument the Holy Spirit uses to bring us to conversion. JTL18 10.3