The Small Catechism – part 31
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Exodus 20:1–6
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Click for a recording of today's lesson.
From the Confessions: The Small Catechism, The First Commandment
You shall have no other gods.
What does this mean?
Answer: We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.
Pulling It Together: There are things that people fear, love, and trust above God. People may fear illness, suffering, and death above God. The result can be slavish devotion to fitness or to doctors and medicine. People may love money more than God, devoting their lives to work and promotions, even working on the Sabbath. Rather than trusting in God’s grace, people may place their confidence in their good deeds and religious works. Ironically, this is making oneself an idol, a false deity brought before the Lord in every time of prayer and worship — indeed, in every moment of life. To truly fear, love, and trust in God above all things may require a massive makeover of one’s life.
Prayer: Search me, O God, and know my heart. 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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