Media release: Out with old, in with the old

People believe the Ten Commandments are fundamental to ordered living, whether they are familiar with the original Biblical principles or not, says Scripture Union, the international Christian charity that aims to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and families to know God

A nationwide poll to choose the New Commandments, compiled by YouGov and Channel 4 television, included carbon copies of the original sayings – said to be given to Moses from God – such as Don’t commit adultery, Don’t kill and Respect your mother and father. Other new offerings including Live within your means and Treat others as you would like to be treated, are closely associated with the original commandments and Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels.

‘Although the new commandants are entirely man-orientated, it is encouraging to see the public, many of whom are not aware of the original Ten Commandments, longing for values similar to those we see in the Bible’, said Keith Civval, Scripture Union’s Chief Executive. ‘Increasing the awareness of the Bible, its life-changing nature, and the integral place of God in our lives is something Scripture Union is committed to.’

One way in which Scripture Union is trying to achieve this is publishing a new children’s book containing biblical truths culturally appropriate and entertaining to today’s church-free generation. 10 Rulz takes a humorous look at Bible characters who disobeyed the Ten Commandments and the often gruesome consequences they suffered, as well as featuring those who obeyed God whole-heartedly.

The book has been in the making since findings last year revealed that one in ten people in Britain had never heard of the Ten Commandments and for those that had, half of them couldn’t recite one.

‘Conveying biblical messages in culturally targeted ways is an important stream to our ministry’, added Civval. ‘These books do not dilute the power of scripture in any way, but help to reach and inspire the latest generation growing up with little awareness of the Bible.’

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NOTES TO EDITORS

1) The shortlist of twenty New Commandments can be found at www.channel4.com/culture

2) The story highlighting how nearly one in ten young people in Britain has never heard of the Ten Commandments appeared in The Times newspaper on 3 September, 2004.

3) 10 Rulz is available for review by calling 01908 856161.

4) Regular media contact: Scripture Union Media Officer Adam Petrie is available on 01908 856030 or 01908 856161.  Email: media@scriptureunion.org.uk

5) Scripture Union is an international Christian mission movement working with churches in more than 140 countries. We provide resources to fulfil our mission to share the good news about Jesus Christ with children, young people, adults and families, and to encourage them to develop spiritually through the Bible and prayer.

Our network of volunteers, staff, associates and affiliates run holidays, church-based events and school Christian groups, and we produce a wide range of publications and support those who use our resources through training programmes.