No other gods (religions)

Exodus 20:3-4

It is hard in our modern age to imagine a time when every nation had its own deities, from Zeus to Isis to Baal. But when the Israelites came out of Egypt, God had to emphasize over and over that He was not just a god but THE God, the one and only. There was no idol to represent Him because no idol could represent all that He is. Today, other religions or philosophies still can be a temptation to Christians who don’t have a strong concept of core Bible principles. After all, many religions share a similar moral code. Other religions also can be enticing just because they are exciting and unfamiliar.


Questions for further thought:
1. Have you ever explored other religions seeking insights?

2. Can you confidently explain what sets Christianity apart from other religions?  


Challenge: Celebrating Christmas in December is one example of turning what originally were pagan festivities into a reason to focus on Jesus. Think about what your criteria are for using practices from other religions as righteous ways to worship God. One example might be Christian yoga.