How does Revelation 22:8 connect to the First Commandment in Exodus 20:3? Scripture Foundation • Revelation 22:8 — “I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things.” • Revelation 22:9 — “But he said to me, ‘Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!’ ” • Exodus 20:3 — “You shall have no other gods before Me.” One Message, Two Moments • John’s impulse: overwhelmed by glory, he bows to an angel. • Angel’s rebuke: only God is worthy of worship—echoing the very first command at Sinai. Exclusive Worship—The Unbroken Thread • First Commandment sets the boundary: no rival, no substitute, no competition for God’s place. • John’s scene illustrates how easily even a devoted believer can drift into misplaced reverence. • The angel’s words “Worship God!” restate the command in real time, proving the commandment remains binding at the close of Scripture. Supporting Cross-References • Revelation 19:10 — another angelic correction: “Worship God!” • Deuteronomy 6:13 — “Fear the LORD your God, serve Him only.” • Matthew 4:10 — Jesus to Satan: “Away from Me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’ ” • Isaiah 42:8 — “I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another.” • 1 John 5:21 — “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” Key Insights • Worship is more than bowing; it is ultimate allegiance. • Any created being, no matter how glorious, is unworthy of that allegiance. • God guards His exclusive right to be worshiped from Genesis to Revelation. Practical Takeaways • Guard your heart: spiritual experiences or leaders can unintentionally eclipse God. • Test every impulse of reverence: does it elevate the Creator or the created? • Let the First Commandment shape daily priorities—God first, always. |
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