Definition:
Divine Command refers to the instructions or mandates given by God to humanity, as recorded in the Holy Scriptures. These commands are considered authoritative and binding, reflecting God's will and moral order for His creation. Divine commands encompass moral, ceremonial, and civil laws, and are foundational to understanding God's expectations for human behavior and worship.

Biblical Basis:
The concept of Divine Command is rooted in the belief that God, as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, has the ultimate authority to dictate moral and ethical standards. This is evident throughout the Bible, where God communicates His will through direct commands, covenants, and laws.

Old Testament Examples:
1. The Ten Commandments: One of the most significant examples of Divine Command is the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. These commandments, found in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21, serve as a moral foundation for God's people. The preamble in Exodus 20:1-2 states, "And God spoke all these words: 'I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.'"

2. Covenantal Commands: Throughout the Old Testament, God establishes covenants with key figures such as Noah, Abraham, and David, often accompanied by specific commands. For instance, in Genesis 17:1-2 , God commands Abraham, "Walk before Me and be blameless, that I may make My covenant between Me and you and multiply you greatly."

3. Ceremonial and Civil Laws: The Mosaic Law, detailed in books like Leviticus and Deuteronomy, includes numerous divine commands regarding worship, sacrifices, and societal regulations. These laws were intended to set Israel apart as a holy nation.

New Testament Examples:
1. The Great Commandment: In the New Testament, Jesus summarizes the law with the Great Commandment, emphasizing love for God and neighbor. In Matthew 22:37-40 , Jesus states, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments."

2. The Great Commission: Before His ascension, Jesus gives the Great Commission to His disciples, commanding them to spread the Gospel. In Matthew 28:19-20 , He instructs, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

3. Apostolic Instructions: The epistles contain numerous divine commands given through the apostles, addressing issues of morality, church order, and Christian living. For example, in 1 Thessalonians 4:3 , Paul writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You must abstain from sexual immorality."

Theological Significance:
Divine Command is central to understanding the nature of God as sovereign and holy. It underscores the belief that God's commands are not arbitrary but are rooted in His character and purposes. Obedience to divine commands is seen as an expression of faith and love for God, as well as a means of participating in His redemptive plan for the world.

Ethical Implications:
The concept of Divine Command has significant ethical implications, as it posits that moral truths are grounded in God's will. This view challenges human autonomy and relativism, asserting that true morality is objective and revealed by God. Believers are called to align their lives with divine commands, trusting in God's wisdom and goodness.