Podcasts about no other gods

Our culture is constantly preaching a sermon on sex. But what happens when the things we believe will satisfy us leave us wanting more?

The First Commandment is no minor rule—it is the foundation of true religion and the dividing line between the living God and every counterfeit. This study of the Baptist Catechism Question 50 shows that every person already knows God exists and is without excuse for refusing Him. Scripture demands exclusive worship, yet idolatry has marked the human race—and even God's people—from the beginning. God judges this sin severely, and the commandment reaches our own hearts: What do we fear, love, trust, and serve most? Listen and be called back to the exclusive claim of the one true God.

The First Commandment is no minor rule—it is the foundation of true religion and the dividing line between the living God and every counterfeit. This study of the Baptist Catechism Question 50 shows that every person already knows God exists and is without excuse for refusing Him. Scripture demands exclusive worship, yet idolatry has marked the human race—and even God's people—from the beginning. God judges this sin severely, and the commandment reaches our own hearts: What do we fear, love, trust, and serve most? Listen and be called back to the exclusive claim of the one true God.

What happens when the pursuit of yourself becomes the very thing keeping you from becoming who you were made to be? What if the path to a full and meaningful life looks completely different than what you've been taught?

What happens when the opinions of others begin to shape who you are, and could your need to be liked be costing you more freedom than you realize?

8-2-26 PM “No Other Gods"Scripture Reading: Acts 19:21-41, Page 1279Sermon Text: Heidelberg Catechism, Lord's Day 34, Q&A 94-95, Forms & Prayers 242I. What does the first commandment require?II. What does the first commandment forbid?Rev. Ralph A. Pontier

Is a belief in the active involvement of God, angels, and demons in human affairs essential to the Gospel of Jesus? This sermon was preached on Saturday, August 1, 2026. For additional information regarding the spiritual worldview of the Bible and the present involvement of spiritual beings in human experience, see the following: "Luke Series - Discussion 12: The Spiritual Forces" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ery8h-14a837d "Luke Series - Discussion 25: The Invasion" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-85cqh-1528122 "Luke Series - Discussion 63: Testing the Spirits" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-2rdbd-16c6649 "Deuteronomy Series - Discussion 2: Fearing the Nephilim" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-vxjxm-173f450 "Deuteronomy Series - Discussion 3: Displacing the Demonic" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-emdjd-174adcd "Deuteronomy Series - Discussion 7: The Intervention of God" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-aeb8c-177c8fa "Deuteronomy Series - Discussion 9: No Other Gods" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-8wzgy-1796811 "Deuteronomy Series - Discussion 13: Banished Nations" - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-dpxxt-17dde05   "gods of the West" series Podcast - Season 9 Books - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H6GRP37C   "Babel Revisited Second Edition: The Day of the Lord is at Hand" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2GQYQYM   Dr. Michael Heiser's "The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible" https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Realm-Recovering-Supernatural-Worldview/dp/1683592719/  

One thing we learn from history is that people don't learn from history. What was true in ancient Israel was equally true in the Roman Empire - idols were everywhere. On Paul's missionary journeys, he would have encountered idols of every kind. In Acts 17, he visited Athens, where he would have seen numerous temples, altars, and statues dedicated to various false gods. He was deeply distressed by what he saw. Idolatry is when something or someone becomes a rival to God's exclusive glory. We are surrounded by it in our culture today. When we see it, are we deeply distressed like Paul was? Do we defend the name of the Lord and want idols in our culture erased? Or have we grown comfortable with them, tolerating them with very little resistance. And what about you? Is there anyone or anything in your life that has become a rival to God's exclusive glory?

The first commandment assumes something most of us don't think about: that we are already worshipping. Not that we should worship, or that we might, that we already are. The question has never been whether you have a god. It's always been which one.In this message from Exodus 20 and Romans 1, Brayden Wall unpacks what it means to have no other gods before God, and why this commandment isn't restrictive but liberating. False gods don't just compete with God, they rule us. And true worship doesn't just replace them, it sets us free.Part of the Ten Commandments series at Soul Revival Church.

How do you trust God when his timing doesn't make sense, his plans don't match yours, and life feels completely out of your control?

Fire. Smoke. Thunder. A trumpet blast shaking the whole camp. And the first thing this mountain-shaking God says is not a command — it's a relationship. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt. Rescue before requirement. Character before command. That's the shape of everything that follows — including the first commandment. In this message, Pastor David walks through Exodus 20:1–3 in three movements: God's character as a Father who claims and rescues before He commands, the first commandment and what al-panai really means, and the fulfillment in Jesus Christ — who is the same voice from the burning bush, now shed in blood to rescue you from the one slavery no Pharaoh could reach. In this message: Why the first commandment is the floor everything else is built on The Hebrew al-panai — four directions: before, beside, instead of, and against Why God says "other gods" — and what the Bible actually says about whether they exist The amnesia thread: Israel forgot, the Pharisees forgot, and we forget too Why your sin, your shame, and your worst decision don't get to name you — only Jesus does Key Scriptures: Exodus 20:1–6 • Genesis 17 • Exodus 34:6 • Matthew 22:36–40 • John 8:31–34 • John 14:6 • Romans 5:8; 6:23; 10:9, 13

What if the thing keeping you from the life God has for you isn't suffering, but your pursuit of comfort?

What if the thing you believe will finally make you feel secure, successful, and satisfied is actually the thing quietly controlling your life?

What if the very thing you're counting on to give your life meaning is actually the thing quietly pulling you away from the life you were made for?

TEN | Week 1 June 7, 2026

The commandments were not given to enslave us, but enrich us. That's why we are calling this “For Our Good, Always” because within each of these 10 commandments are directions toward blessing, not away from blessing. You might think, “Well, that's great, but what if I'm one of those kinds of people who have a hard time following directions? What if all I get when I read the Ten Commandments is a massive dose of guilt? Dispense for the idea that most directions result in failure and disapproval. If these are four are good always, we should want to follow them, not have to follow them. When you as a parent give rules to your children, are you enslaving them or helping them?

This series explores the Ten Commandments as “Ten Words” spoken by a loving God who rescued his people and now invites them into a life of flourishing, fruitfulness, and communion with him rather than mere rule-keeping. The first commandment calls us to worship and trust God alone, because we inevitably become like whatever we give our ultimate love and allegiance to.

Who or what do you truly serve? You'll discover why clarity about your ultimate allegiance matters more than you think, and how the first commandment isn't about rules but about freedom. You can expect to wrestle with honest questions about where your heart truly bows—whether to God or to the subtle gods of money, success, influence, or security. You'll be challenged to examine what you depend on most, because that will eventually define you.Passages in this message:Exodus 20:1-3Matthew 6:24Matthew 22:37-40Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content from The Story!TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP HERE:Thestorygr.com/connectJOIN US IN PERSON:The Story Church475 6 Mile Road NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321You can support the ministry happening at The Story at thestorygr.com/give#thestorychurch #comstockparkmi

Exodus 20:1-3

be blessed

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Tuesday morning, the 12th of May, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We start in the Gospel of John 14:6. Remember, Thomas said to Jesus, “We do not know the way,” and “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Then we go to the Book of Acts 17:22: “Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious;…” That was because they were seeking to find the truth. They had many different gods but there was one inscription and it is found in verse 23, and this inscription says,”TO THE UNKNOWN GOD.”Now Paul was speaking to these learned wise men, and he was telling them about Jesus. Of course, when he saw this inscription, he said to them, “This is the Unknown God that you are seeking. His name is Jesus Christ and He is the One that you are worshipping, even if you do not know it.” I want to say to you today, there is no other god, there never was and there never will be. We need to tell people. There are many confused people, good people, and wonderful people, and they believe that all roads lead to Heaven. They do not all lead to Heaven. There is only one God and He has only one Son. His Son is Jesus Christ.Folks, it will make you unpopular. I know that because I have become very unpopular often when I say in love, “there is no other god”. You see, if you say to a person, “I love God”, they will not mind it because God is who you perceive him to be. Some people worship the trees, some people worship the stars, but when you say, “There is only One God and His name is Jesus Christ”, then all Heaven breaks loose! People say, “How can you say that?” “How can you be so self-righteous?” You say, “No, it's what the word of God says. It is what the Bible says, and we believe He is the Word, as it says in John 1:1. In the beginning was the Word and His name is Jesus. I am so proud to tell people that, and I tell them that He died for all men, not just some men, of different ages, different colours, different creeds.So today, do not be ashamed of the Gospel of Christ! Have a wonderful day.Goodbye.

Send us a text or leave a voice message!email us! twroadpodcast@gmail.comhttps://buymeacoffee.com/twrpodA listener heard our episode about “No Other Gods Before Me” and reached out with a story that forced us to continue the conversation.A deeply personal experience involving Lord Shiva.In this episode, The Wandering Road explores one of the oldest and most powerful deities still worshipped today, while unpacking what it means when ancient gods stop feeling ancient.The conversation moves through Hinduism, spiritual encounters, altered states, symbolism, and the strange persistence of divine experiences across cultures and centuries.Whether you approach this from faith, skepticism, or pure curiosity, one thing becomes clear:Humanity may have changed…But the questions never did.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wandering-road/id1678025434https://open.spotify.com/show/4bntTTtDjBkilDqT4rIgS7Support the showSOCIAL MEDIATwitter: @TWRoadpodcastIG: twroadpodcastWant to be a guest or share your paranormal experiences?  Email us!twroadpodcast@gmail.com

Today on Conversations, the team dives into the first of the Ten Commandments, and the importance of keeping God first in our lives then in Exodus, and now in 2026.

Send us a text or leave a voice message!email us! twroadpodcast@gmail.comhttps://buymeacoffee.com/twrpod  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wandering-road/id1678025434https://open.spotify.com/show/4bntTTtDjBkilDqT4rIgS7In this episode, the guys from The Wandering Road team up with JJ from Southern Demonology to unpack a question that's been hiding in plain sight: Does this commandment deny other gods… or quietly acknowledge them?What starts as a simple question quickly turns into a deep dive through ancient belief systems, where multiple gods weren't just accepted they were expected. The conversation explores how early religious traditions may have been less about eliminating other deities and more about prioritizing allegiance.Along the way, the discussion branches into the fascinating intersection of power and divinity. Figures like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar didn't just lead empires they blurred the line between ruler and god, shaping how people understood authority, worship, and legacy.Of course, it wouldn't be The Wandering Road without the usual mix of humor, side tangents, and sharp back-and-forth that keeps things grounded while the ideas get big.This episode isn't about giving answers—it's about asking the kind of questions that make history feel a lot less settled than we thought.Because maybe the real mystery isn't whether there's one god…Support the showSOCIAL MEDIATwitter: @TWRoadpodcastIG: twroadpodcastWant to be a guest or share your paranormal experiences?  Email us!twroadpodcast@gmail.com

This first commandment  teaches us how to understand everything that follows.

The 10 Commandments E4 — Before Yahweh gives the 10 Commandments to Israel, he reminds them that he is the God who liberated them from slavery and is entering into a covenant with them. So how does this connect with the first commandment, “You will have no other gods before me”? And what does that even mean? In this episode, Jon and Tim walk through the 1st Commandment, exploring how a command about ultimate allegiance can keep the newly liberated people of Israel (and us) free. FULL SHOW NOTES For chapter-by-chapter summaries, biblical words, referenced Scriptures, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode. CHAPTERS Recap and the Scene When God Gives the 10 Commandments (0:00-12:38) “Before My Face” (12:38-24:09) The Meaning of “No Other Elohim” (24:09-33:11) Allegiance That Leads to Life (33:11-41:21) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. THE 10 COMMANDMENTS BIBLEPROJECT TRANSLATION View our full translation of the 10 Commandments. REFERENCED RESOURCES Find the related animated video for this episode here. Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books. SHOW MUSIC “Coffee Crash” by Lofi Sunday feat. Me & The Boys “Stillness” by Lofi Sunday feat. dannyfreeman “Faith (Mustard Seed)” by Lofi Sunday feat. Zairis Téjion BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty writes the show notes. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The post No Other Gods appeared first on Greencastle Otterbein United Brethren in Christ Church.

Relationships are one of God's greatest gifts—but they were never meant to take His place. In this message, we explore how even good relationships can slowly become idols when we look to people for the identity, peace, and fulfillment that only Jesus can provide. Discover how putting Jesus back at the center allows us to love others in a healthier, God-honoring way. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2026 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #NoOtherGods #idolofrelationships

In this message from our “No Other Gods” series, we explore the Idol of Pleasure—the belief that happiness and fulfillment can be found in chasing experiences, comfort, and temporary satisfaction. Looking at the life of King Solomon in Ecclesiastes, we discover that even unlimited wealth, power, and pleasure ultimately left him empty. This sermon challenges us to realign our hearts, reminding us that while pleasure can satisfy the moment, only faith and trust in God can define our future and truly fulfill the deepest longings of our lives. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2026 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #NoOtherGods #idolofpleasure #solomon

Brett Vanderzee preaches a sermon on Exodus 20:1-3 in a series entitled "The Ten Words: Christ and the Commandments."

This week, in our “No Other Gods” series, we confront the idol of image and comparison—the exhausting cycle of measuring ourselves against everyone else. Whether you're in a season of transition, striving to figure out your calling, or questioning what's next, this message uncovers how insecurity and pride grow from misplaced identity. Discover the freedom that comes from humility, honest self-evaluation, and confidently embracing who God created you to be and what He uniquely designed you to do. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2026 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #NoOtherGods #idolofimage #comparisongame

In week two of our No Other Gods series, we confront one of the most subtle idols of our time: success. Through the wisdom of Solomon and a powerful personal story of rise, collapse, and redemption, we discover why success is a liar, why our value isn't tied to our net worth, and why significance—not status—is what truly lasts. If you've ever measured your worth by achievement, this message will re-center your identity on what God says matters most. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2026 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #NoOtherGods #Godsatwar #idolofsuccess

This teaching series, recorded at Waverley Christian Fellowship in 1989, explores the Ten Commandments. For more in-depth teaching on this important subject, we invite you to read Kevin's best-selling book What Do You Mean I Am Not Under Law, I Am Under Grace?, available from Amazon and as a PDF download from https://www.kevinconner.org/books-by-kevin/law-and-grace/    Note: This episode was sourced from an original cassette recording, and the audio quality reflects the limitations of that medium.

We're kicking off a brand-new series, No Other Gods, by asking a powerful question: what truly sits on the throne of your heart? This message explores how we're all wired to worship and how our words, time, money, and emotions reveal what we value most. Join us as we learn to surrender every competing priority and place God back at the center of our lives. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2025 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #NoOtherGods #TheThroneofmyHeart #Whereyourheartsits

This week Pastor Jesse speaks on why we shouldn't have other Gods.   Main Scripture & Points: Exodus 20 Deuteronomy 5:6-7 1 Corinthians 16:14 Matthew 22:37-40 Isaiah 5:20 Exodus 20:2-3 Romans 6:16 James 4:4 Mark 8:35   *This episode was recorded on 01/25/26

Are the 10 Commandments outdated rules that restrict your life, or are they God's protective guidelines that keep you free? Join us for our new series as we continue our journey through Exodus and discover how God's commandments aren't meant to limit us—they're designed to protect our freedom and keep us close to Him. Each week we'll explore one of the commandments and see how it applies to your life today, helping you stay in the freedom, love, and purpose God created you for. Don't miss this practical series that will change the way you see God's Word!

Erik continues our sermon series, Enduring Words, Abiding Love, with a sermon from Exodus 20:3. (January 11, 2026)

In this message, Ed Young explores the significance of the Ten Commandments as God's gracious guide for living in freedom, emphasizing their foundation in redemption, their division between our relationship with God and with others, and their ultimate pointing to Jesus, while focusing particularly on the first commandment's call to worship God alone as the only one worthy and capable of meeting our deepest needs.

Pastor Jesse Pausch

Sermon Summary: “Thou Shalt Have No Other Gods Besides Me”   God Must Be First—Always The sermon opens with Exodus 20, where God establishes the first commandment: nothing is allowed to come before Him. This command is foundational because when God is not first, every other area of life eventually becomes disordered. Even temporary distractions or misplaced priorities can function as false gods if they take precedence over God. Idolatry Is Often Subtle Modern idolatry is rarely statues or images—it is anything that competes for God's place. Satan works primarily as a deceiver, making good or neutral things seem more important than God. Careers, relationships, possessions, comfort, and personal ambitions can quietly move ahead of God, especially during seasons of pressure or busyness. Jesus Demands Supreme Loyalty Jesus reinforces this command in the New Testament, teaching that no relationship or pursuit—even family—can outrank devotion to Him. Loving anyone or anything more than Christ disqualifies true discipleship. This does not diminish human love, but properly orders it under a supreme love for God. Counting the Cost of Discipleship Following Jesus requires intentional commitment. He warns that disciples must count the cost, understanding that faith involves sacrifice, endurance, and perseverance. Those who begin without resolve often fall away when pressure, ridicule, or difficulty arises. A Disciple Is Permanently Committed The sermon explains that a disciple is not someone who tries Christianity, but someone who has made a decisive act with permanent results. True disciples are “glued,” “fused,” and fully attached to Christ and His teachings, refusing to live a divided life or allow compromise. Spiritual Danger of Becoming Sluggish Scripture warns against becoming spiritually sluggish—not sinful rebellion, but spiritual laziness. When diligence fades, prayer weakens, Scripture becomes neglected, and God gradually loses first place. Faithfulness requires intentional effort and consistency. God Rewards Undivided Hearts Psalm 84 highlights the blessing of those whose strength is in the Lord and whose hearts are set on the journey with Him. God withholds no good thing from those who remain upright, coupled, and fully devoted. A day in God's presence is better than anything the world offers. Trusting God With the Impossible The sermon concludes with the challenge of the “Impossibility List”—placing before God needs that only He can accomplish. This practice reinforces trust, keeps God first, and builds faith as believers watch Him answer prayers over time. Final Call Believers are urged to examine their lives, realign priorities, and recommit to placing God first in every area. When hope seems lost, God proves Himself faithful. True discipleship begins and continues with this resolve: no other gods—only Him.

Modern Conservatism is collapsing, and it isn't because of the Left. It's because the Right has abandoned biblical order, biblical loyalty, and biblical leadership.In this episode of Uncommon Sense, I'm examining how our so-called conservative leaders have traded Christianity for political convenience, elevating foreign loyalties, unbiblical theology, and female authority over God's clearly established design. When prominent figures openly choose Judaism over Christianity and Israel over America, we must ask: What exactly are we conserving anymore?Scripture is clear: Christianity is a patriarchy with God as its Head, Christ as King, and men called to lead in righteousness. A movement that rejects this order will inevitably rot from the inside out.This episode is a call to return to:Christ over cultureFaith over foreign allegianceGod's elect over globalist prioritiesBiblical men over platformed female personalitiesIf Conservatism wants to survive, it must first repent.--https://www.bible.com/

You Will Have No Other Gods Before Me - Exodus 20:3Matthew FanningBelievers in Grace Fellowshipwww.believersingrace.com

Monday November 3, 2025XXI After PentecostIn today's readings, we see the sobering consequences of rebellion, the call to holiness in a compromised world, and the authority of Jesus over darkness itself.