May 11, 2022

And God spoke all these words, saying,

“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery."

"You shall have no other gods before me."

—Exodus 20:1-3

The Westminster Catechism says that our sole purpose is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. What we see in that simple phrase is the first commandment expressed with a positive force. God calls us to worship through his word – stirring our remembrance and worship for his divine works. The latter half of the catechism “enjoy him forever.” is expressed in the phrase “you shall have no other gods before me.” But how can the commandment, which seems limiting, say the same thing as the catechism - which sounds almost indulgent? Consider the God who calls us to this endeavor of worship: Creation boasts of God’s great power, creativity, and goodness. Scripture is wonderfully complex, communicating the most important truths so simply that a child can understand them, while also inviting the greatest minds to ponder the depth contained within. Salvation is fulfilling, empowering, and so freely given to us! This call to “have no other gods” is not a limitation, but a constructive focus - calling us to turn away from anything that distracts us without providing any benefit, and turn towards the God in whom all wonder, meaning, and satisfaction can be found.. 

 — MATT ALLHANDS