“For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”
Context:The book of Exodus narrates the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. In this particular chapter (Exodus 34), Moses had broken the first set of stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments in response to the Israelites’ idolatry (worshiping the golden calf). God called Moses back up Mount Sinai to inscribe a new set of commandments on fresh tablets.
Command against worshiping other gods:In Exodus 34:14, God instructs the Israelites not to worship any other gods but Him. This command reiterates the first and most crucial of the Ten Commandments: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). God demands exclusive loyalty and devotion from His chosen people.
The name of God – Jealous:In this verse, God refers to Himself as “Jealous.” This term might seem peculiar, but it conveys an essential aspect of God’s character. His jealousy is not rooted in insecurity or pettiness, but rather in His passionate love for His people. God desires an intimate and exclusive relationship with His chosen ones. He is jealous when they turn to worship other gods because He knows that only He can truly fulfill their needs and provide for them.
Understanding God’s Jealousy:It’s important to understand that God’s jealousy is different from human jealousy. Human jealousy is often self-centred and possessive, leading to negative consequences. On the other hand, God’s jealousy is righteous and holy. It seeks the best for His people and protects them from the spiritual harm that idolatry can cause.
Application for us today:While this verse directly addresses the Israelites of the Old Testament, the principle behind it still applies to believers today. As Christians, we are called to worship the one true God and follow Jesus Christ. We are not to be swayed by worldly temptations or bow down to false gods or idols. This includes anything that takes the place of God in our hearts, such as material possessions, ambitions, or even relationships.
The importance of Exclusive Devotion:God’s desire for exclusive devotion stems from His love for us and His knowledge of what is best for us. When we put God first in our lives, we experience the fullness of His love, grace, and blessings. Jesus affirmed this principle when He said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37).
Grace and Forgiveness:Although God is jealous for our affection, He is also a God of grace and forgiveness. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of God’s willingness to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him with repentant hearts.
In conclusion, Exodus 34:14 is a reminder of God’s exclusive claim on our worship and devotion. He calls us to worship no other gods and to recognise His unique and central role in our lives. As we embrace His jealousy as an expression of His deep love for us, we can experience the joy and fulfilment that comes from a genuine and intimate relationship with our Creator.
