What is the meaning of Exodus 20:3?

You shall have

- God speaks directly and personally: “you.” The command reaches every individual heart, not just the nation as a whole (cf. Deuteronomy 10:12–13).

- “Shall” signals a binding, non-negotiable requirement. It is not suggestion or advice; it is covenant expectation (see John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”).

- “Have” points to possession, allegiance, relationship. The Lord is calling for exclusive ownership of our worship—nothing less than wholehearted love (Deuteronomy 6:5).

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no other gods

• “Other gods” covers:

– Carved idols (Leviticus 26:1).

– Invisible loyalties—money, pleasure, status—anything that competes for first place (Colossians 3:5: “Put to death…greed, which is idolatry.”).

• Scripture insists these rivals are powerless and empty: “For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens” (Psalm 96:5).

• Refusal to chase them safeguards freedom. Paul echoes the command: “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14).

• The prohibition is comprehensive—“no” exceptions, no compartment where another authority can coexist (1 John 5:21).

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before Me

- “Before” speaks of God’s continual presence; life is lived face-to-face with Him (Psalm 139:7–12).

- The phrase demands priority: nothing may come “in My face,” rivaling or surpassing Him. Jesus applies the same principle: “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24).

- Loyalty is measured not only in public worship but in hidden thoughts and everyday choices; all unfold “before” the Lord who sees the heart (Hebrews 4:13).

- Choosing Him first brings blessing and stability (Jeremiah 17:7–8), while sidelining Him invites ruin (Judges 2:11–15).

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summary

Exodus 20:3 establishes the cornerstone of covenant life. The Lord personally commands each believer to belong exclusively to Him, tolerating no competing allegiance in any sphere. Because He is ever-present, every motive, decision, and affection must be ordered around His unrivaled worth. Living this command liberates us from empty idols and anchors us in the steadfast love of the one true God.