Remember to whom this commandment was given, and we shall see further
how necessary it was. The forefathers of the Israelites had worshipped
idols, not many generations back. They had recently been delivered out
of Egypt, a land of many gods. The Egyptians worshipped the sun, the
moon, insects, animals, etc. The ten plagues were undoubtedly meant by
God to bring confusion upon many of their sacred objects. The children
of Israel were going up to take possession of a land that was
inhabited by heathen, who also worshipped idols. There was therefore
great need of such a commandment as this. There could be no right
relationship between God and man in those days any more than to-day,
until man understood that he must recognize God alone, and not offer
Him a divided heart.
If He created us, He certainly ought to have our homage. Is it not
right that He should have the first and only place in our affections?