How does this verse connect with the First Commandment in Exodus 20:3? Understanding 1 Corinthians 8:4 In Context “So about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world, and that there is no God but one.” (1 Corinthians 8:4) • Paul addresses Corinthian believers who lived among temples and public feasts dedicated to pagan gods. • His starting point: idols have no real existence; behind every carved image is emptiness. • The bedrock conviction: “there is no God but one.” The Heartbeat of the First Commandment “You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20:3) • God’s opening word to Israel establishes exclusive allegiance. • The command is not merely “first” in order but foundational—every other command flows from it. • It asserts that any rival claim to divinity is forbidden. One Thread, Two Testaments Paul’s statement echoes Moses’ command in three key ways: 1. Single Deity – Exodus 20:3: only one true God. – 1 Corinthians 8:4: “there is no God but one.” 2. False Gods Exposed – Exodus warns against acknowledging other gods; Paul declares idols are “nothing.” 3. Loyalty of Worship – The First Commandment demands undivided devotion; Paul’s teaching aims to keep believers from honoring idols even indirectly through food. Supporting Scriptures reinforcing the link: • Deuteronomy 6:4 — “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One.” • Isaiah 45:5 — “I am the LORD, and there is no other; there is no God but Me.” • Matthew 4:10 — “Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.” • 1 Corinthians 10:19-20 — idols are nothing, yet demonic forces lurk behind the practice. From Knowledge to Loyalty • “Knowledge” that idols are empty (8:1-3) must lead to practical choices that honor God alone. • Eating meat knowingly offered to idols could blur lines for weaker brothers, risking violation of the First Commandment in their conscience. • True obedience combines right doctrine (one God) with loving concern (no stumbling blocks). Living the Truth Today • Idolatry shows up in modern forms—career, pleasure, technology, self—anything treasured above God. • The exclusivity of Exodus 20:3 and 1 Corinthians 8:4 calls believers to evaluate loyalties. • Worship is not merely Sunday singing but daily decisions that display, “There is no God but One.” Key Takeaways • Both passages anchor us in monotheism: one real God, no rivals. • Idols, ancient or modern, are powerless yet spiritually dangerous when they steal affection. • Knowledge of God’s uniqueness must shape how we live, love, and influence others. |
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