How does this event connect with the First Commandment in Exodus 20:3? The Event: Jesus Resists Satan’s Offer (Matthew 4:10) “ ‘Away from Me, Satan!’ Jesus declared. ‘For it is written: “Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.” ’ Core Truth on Display • Satan’s proposal of worldly glory demanded that Jesus acknowledge another authority beside the Father. • Jesus answers with Scripture (Deuteronomy 6:13), asserting that worship and service belong exclusively to God. • By rejecting idolatrous compromise, Jesus models perfect obedience to the First Commandment. Connecting the Event to Exodus 20:3 “You shall have no other gods before Me.” • Exclusive Allegiance: Jesus’ reply mirrors the command’s call for singular devotion; no rival is tolerated. • Authority Established: Just as God at Sinai demands first place, Jesus upholds that same divine priority in the wilderness. • Idolatry Exposed: Satan’s offer represents a “god before” the LORD—power, prestige, and instant acclaim. Jesus’ refusal confronts the heart-level temptation every believer faces. • Scripture Interprets Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:13 (quoted by Jesus) flows from the Ten Commandments’ foundation, knitting the wilderness temptation to Sinai’s covenant word. Reinforcing Passages • Deuteronomy 10:20 — “Fear the LORD your God and serve Him.” • Matthew 6:24 — “No one can serve two masters.” • 1 Corinthians 10:14 — “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” • 1 John 5:21 — “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” Living It Out • Identify modern “gods” (career, relationships, entertainment) that vie for ultimate loyalty. • Counter every competing voice with clear Scripture, following Jesus’ example. • Prioritize worship—private and corporate—as a continual declaration that God alone is worthy. • Serve Him only: let decisions, ambitions, and resources align with His revealed will, refusing any partnership that dilutes wholehearted devotion. |
    |