Ten Commandments: Loving God and loving others starts with _______. / Pastor Jeff Struecker

#1- Exodus 20:1-3

Then God spoke all these words: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the place of slavery. Do not have other gods besides me.

Big Idea: Loving God and loving others starts with _______.

I. It’s #1 for a reason.

Matthew 22:36-40

“Teacher, which command in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.”

II. #1 touches everything.

1 Kings 18:21

Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him. But if Baal, follow him.” But the people didn’t answer him a word.

III. Everything follows #1.

Exodus 34:14

Because the Lord is jealous for his reputation, you are never to bow down to another god. He is a jealous God.

Next Steps: 

• Believe: Today, I renounce my lesser gods and trust Jesus.
• Become: I will trust the Holy Spirit to direct me this week.
• Be Sent: I will show my trust in God to others this week.

Discussion Questions: 

1. Has your loyalty to God been challenged this week? If so, explain.
2. If loving God with “all your heart, soul, and mind” is the greatest commandment, what needs to change in your life to live it out fully this week?
3. Ezekiel 14:3–6 describes “setting up idols in their hearts.” Does this differ from ancient carved images? 
4. What internal “idols” compete for your devotion?
5. Do you know anyone who worships created things rather than the Creator? If so, explain.
6. Is it possible to serve two gods at the same time? Explain your answer using Scripture. 
7. Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you follow God fully this week.