This is the chapter in Exodus where God tells Moses the Ten Commandments:
Don't have any gods before Me.
Don't make an idol and worship it.
Don't misuse the Name of the Lord.
Remember the Sabbath day and don't work on it.
Honor your mom and dad (and you'll live long in the land).
Don't murder.
Don't have sex with another person's spouse.
Don't steal.
Don't lie.
Don't be jealous and covet your neighbor's stuff.
"When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance and said to Moses, 'Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.'"
They somehow thought that Moses could control God!?! That's weird.
I wonder if that's a translation typo, or if they really saw the thunder?! After the people told Moses that, God reminded Moses about one of the commandments -- "Do not make any gods to be alongside Me; do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gods of gold." It's interesting that He pointed that out twice. Maybe He knew what was around the corner...?
Posted by Doug Van Pelt at June 21, 2007 10:02 AMYes, I think God had to mention not to have any other gods twice because of the origin of sin when Lucifer wanted to be lifted up as equal to God, and got kicked out of heaven. God knew that what made Lucifer fall from heaven is the exact thing that would be planted in the hearts of men. The idolatry of "self" is a strong poison.
Posted by: Jacqui at June 21, 2007 07:17 PM