The appropriateness of displaying the Ten Commandments in public institutions that receive city, state, or federal support often resurfaces with renewed energy when tragic events such as the shootings at Columbine High School increase people's desire for a common code of conduct in our society. Anger that the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed in public schools or post offices or courtrooms often arises from those who view the commandments as being applicable to everyone. After all, what nation or organized group would not benefit from following rules against profanity, stealing, lying, murdering, coveting, committing adultery, and dishonoring one's parents? Those who challenge the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools and courthouses, however, point out that common human reason does not, in fact, support the universal validity of the first four commandments, which requires or at least assumes belief in God. Only from the perspective of faith can one claim that these commandments are universally valid.
This study will begin by looking at arguments used for and against the public display of the Ten Commandments, also called the Decalogue. Then we will address a serious theological issue for Christians and Jews. Can we really separate the Ten Commandments into parts without losing the integrity of our faith in the God who gave them?