Lord's Day 44

113.	Q.	What does the tenth commandment require of us?
	A.	That not even the slightest thought or desire contrary to any of God's commandments should ever arise in our heart. Rather, with all our heart we should always hate all sin and delight in all righteousness. ¹
		1. Ps 19:7-14; 139:23, 24; Rom 7:7, 8.

114.	Q.	But can those converted to God keep these commandments perfectly?
	A.	No. In this life even the holiest have only a small beginning of this obedience. ¹ Nevertheless, with earnest purpose they do begin to live not only according to some but to all the commandments of God. ²
		1. Eccles 7:20; Rom 7:14, 15; 1 Cor 13:9; 1 Jn 1:8. 2. Ps 1:1, 2; Rom 7:22-25; Phil 3:12-16.

115.	Q.	If in this life no one can keep the ten commandments perfectly, why does God have them preached so strictly?
	A.	First, so that throughout our life we may more and more become aware of our sinful nature, and therefore seek more eagerly the forgiveness of sins and righteousness in Christ. ¹ Second, so that, while praying to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, we may never stop striving to be renewed more and more after God's image, until after this life we reach the goal of perfection. ²
		1. Ps 32:5; Rom 3:19-26; 7:7, 24, 25; 1 Jn 1:9. 2. 1 Cor 9:24; Phil 3:12-14; 1 Jn 3:1-3.