Q47. What does the first commandment forbid?
The first commandment forbids denying God, or refusing to worship and glorify the true God as God and our God. It also forbids giving to anything else the worship and glory that belong to him alone.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Psalm 14:1
“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.”
Romans 1:21
“Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
Psalm 81:10–11
“I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it. But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.”
Romans 1:25–26
“Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does the first commandment forbid?
- 2
Why is it serious to give worship and glory to something that is not God?
- 3
What is something good that could become an idol if you loved it too much?
Illustration
A trophy belongs on the shelf, not on the dinner table where your food goes. Good things become idols when we put them where only God belongs. Sports, friends, screens, even family can take God's place in our hearts if we let them.
Application
This commandment does not just forbid statues. It forbids giving anything else the love and devotion that belong to God alone. Ask God to help you see where you might be doing this, and confess it to him.