The Large Catechism – part 43
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Numbers 24:10–13
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The First Commandment
You shall have no other gods before me.
So, too, those who trust and boast of their great skill, wisdom, power, favor, friendship, and honor also have a god — but not the true and only God. Notice again, how presumptuous, secure, and proud people are because of such possessions, and how despondent they become when these things no longer exist or are withdrawn. Therefore, I repeat that having anything in which the heart entirely trusts, is to have a god.
Pulling It Together: Balak is exasperated at the realization that he cannot have his own way. He tried three times to coerce Balaam to curse God’s people, yet God blessed them three times over. Balak was told beforehand that God’s word would be spoken, only for the king to try to undo the divine will those three times. This is, of course, the promotion of one’s own will over God’s will. It is trust in one’s own power of persuasive speech, one’s own power and position. It is trust in a false god.
Before we dismiss this as an interesting story about someone else, do make yourself consider that it is also a story about you and me. We too, can place our trust, hopes, and dreams in other gods. And we do.
Prayer: I ask you again, Lord, to help me fear, love, and trust in you above all other gods. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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