The Ten Commandments occupy a special place in Scripture, and so it is little surprise that they gradually formed an integral part of the instruction in the church, also in its ethics. This article considers their special place, and how some have challenged their key position in the church. The author clarifies that the law is not a way of salvation, but instead a norm for life. He discusses the connection between freedom and law, and then how Christ brought out the depth and unity of the commandments in his teaching. The threefold use of the law is also considered, as a safeguard, mirror, and norm.