Question 9


What does God require in the first, second, and third commandments?

First, that we know God as the only true God. Second, that we avoid all idolatry. Third, that we treat God’s name with fear and reverence.

Deuteronomy 6:13–14

Fear the LORD your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name. Do not follow other gods, the gods of the peoples around you.

It is the Lord your God you shall fear. Him you shall serve and by his name you shall swear. You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are around you.

Prayer

Lord God, you commanded that we should have no other gods before you—that you alone should be our Lord and God. We should put all our trust in you, be thankful to you, love you, fear you, and obey you. But, dear Father, we have broken your law and trusted in other things. Please forgive us our idolatry and help us to have no other God but you. Help us to know and love your holy name, Word, and truth. Amen.

Derived and adapted from John Bradford in “Godly Meditations: A Meditation upon the Ten Commandments” in The Writings of John Bradford, edited by Aubrey Townsend (Cambridge: University Press, 1868), 150–157.

What is the first commandment?

What is the second commandment?

What is the third commandment?

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