How does Amos 5:26 connect with the First Commandment in Exodus 20:3? Exodus 20:3—The Command Clearly Stated “You shall have no other gods before Me.” Amos 5:26—The Violation Exposed “You have lifted up Sakkuth your king and Kaiwan your star god, the idols you made for yourselves.” How the Two Passages Connect • The First Commandment demands exclusive loyalty to the LORD. • Amos indicts Israel for doing the exact opposite—elevating man-made deities. • The prophet’s rebuke shows that the Ten Commandments were not merely historical; they remained the binding covenant standard centuries later. • By naming Sakkuth and Kaiwan, Amos highlights that any substitute—whether ancient Mesopotamian astral gods or modern-day idols—breaks the very first word of God’s moral law. Key Observations • Same Covenant Framework – Exodus establishes it; Amos appeals to it. • Idolatry Is Treason – “Before Me” (Exodus 20:3) means “in My presence”; Israel set rival gods there (Amos 5:26). • Idols Are Self-Made – “the idols you made for yourselves” (Amos 5:26) contrasts with the self-existent I AM who delivered them (Exodus 20:2). • Judgment Follows Betrayal – Amos 5:27 announces exile for this sin, fulfilling the covenant curses of Deuteronomy 28:36. Supporting Passages • Deuteronomy 6:14-15—jealous God warns against following other gods. • 2 Kings 17:15-18—historical record of the same sin leading to Assyrian captivity. • Acts 7:42-43—Stephen quotes Amos 5:26-27 to show persistent rebellion. • 1 Corinthians 10:14—“Flee from idolatry,” applying the first commandment to the church. Timeless Takeaways • God demands undivided worship; anything else is spiritual adultery. • Cultural acceptance of idols never nullifies God’s eternal standard. • True covenant faithfulness is measured by exclusive devotion to the LORD, then and now. |
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