Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Exodus 20:5–6
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Exodus 20:5–6
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: The idea of serving idols (“or serve them”) in verse five is specific to bringing them the service of worship. The NIV translates it so: “You shall not bow down to them or worship them.” Those translations in the lineage of the KJV keep with the word “serve.” It means the same. We are not to serve idols with our worship. Doing so seeks to deify chunks of wood or stone. Idols are inanimate objects. Though they may symbolize some other god, they are representations of empty, human inventions, devoid of life. There is one God, and we are to fear, love, and trust in him above all things—including idols.
Prayer: I worship you alone, Lord God. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Come, Worship the Lord (Sola Music Series, Vol I) The Sola Music Series offers simple collections of easy-to-play worship music, including new songs and arrangements of old favorites. Based in a confessional theology and a respect for the historical and sacramental liturgy, these resources do not require a high level of musical expertise. Written in a simple and straight-forward style, these songs are intended for congregations that would like to explore a less formal musical style in worship, while still maintaining the integrity of the traditional order of worship. Such music would fit into what is sometimes referred to as "contemporary" or "blended" worship, without necessarily requiring a full band of experienced musicians and singers to lead the songs. Providing lead sheets for guitar and vocals, along with full scores for piano, Sola Publishing grants to those who purchase this volume the permission to reproduce words and music of the songs within for local congregational use. This book includes music from "The Holy Cross Setting" available with a SOWeR subscription.
Author
Rev. Mark E. Ryman serves as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Previously, Pastor Ryman has served other congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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