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The second commandment articulates our responsibility as Christians to avoid idolatry both in thought and practice. The subtle draw to displace the Lord of his rightful place of our worship, is something that can begin to creep in and we must wage war against. Today, we continue our discussion of God's moral law, and consider, which is the 2nd commandment. PBHB GIVEAWAY: https://www.stayreformed.com/giveawayAdditional References:Buy A Puritan Catechism: https://a.co/d/esRURdtRead A Puritan Catechism: https://www.chapellibrary.org/pdf/books/cwpr.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOop_iUZJzFz_3HbHFqJUqPMbSUhhfZUx9FY_-KuyKA9_kwqb8Kh6The Second London Baptist Confession (1689): https://founders.org/library-book/1689-confession/https://www.chapellibrary.org/pdf/books/lbcw.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOorAi1b6iCPqv94DjBcMhSSpcDOGwJrb9hXJSlgqxrFSgo9ofc0-Social Media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StayReformedTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/stayreformedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayreformed/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stayreformedpodcast/Website: https://www.stayreformed.com/Email: contact@stayreformed.com
Reverend Chris Harper - Scripture: Deuteronomy 5: 8-10
What's actually prohibited in "you shall not make for yourself an idol"? Dave Rich works through the Second Commandment verse by verse, and the answer is more precise than most people assume.Lesson 31 in this verse-by-verse study examines Exodus 20:4-6, comparing it carefully against its restatement in Deuteronomy 5. Rich breaks down the Hebrew terms behind "idol" and "likeness," then makes a case from the tabernacle's own furnishings (the lampstand, the cherubim) that images of created things were never the problem. The real prohibition, he argues, is worship and service directed at an image, whether of a false god or of Yahweh himself.From there, Rich traces the pattern through Aaron's golden calf, Jeroboam's calves at Bethel and Dan, and the worship of an ephod during the judges, before tackling the harder question of why Israel specifically couldn't picture God the Father. His answer rests on a simple historical fact: at Sinai, they saw no form. He also takes on what "visiting the iniquity of the fathers" really means, clearing up a phrase many readers misunderstand.This lecture sets up next week's harder question: what about images of Jesus? ★ Support this podcast ★
In the abbreviated Protestant form of “The Ten Commandments,” the second reads, “You shall not make for yourself a carved image.” However, that statement is omitted in the abbreviated list that Catholics use. Was this an intentional omission so that the Catholic use of statues would not be questioned? Or is there a different explanation?Comparative religion website: www.thetruelight.net Ministry website: www.shreveministries.org The Catholic Project website: http://www.toCatholicswithlove.org (English & Spanish) Video channel: www.YouTube.com/mikeshreveministries All audio-podcasts are shared in a video format on our YouTube channel. Mike Shreve's other podcast Discover Your Spiritual Identity—a study on the biblical names given to God's people: https://shreveministries.org/wp2/media/podcasts/ Mail: P.O. Box 4260, Cleveland, TN 37320 / Phone: 423-478-2843Purchase Mike Shreve's popular book comparing over 20 religions: In Search of the True LightPurchase Mike Shreve's new book comparing Catholicism to biblical Christianity: The Beliefs of the Catholic Church
Many Focus on Earning Money and Living a Financially Driven Life Which Lets Money Become Their “god” MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are so focused on earning money and other financially driven life activities so that it is easy for money and finances to become our god. Making finances “our god” violates the Second Commandment. Jesus is Lord over all Creation, as we are told in Psalms 24:1: “The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.”. Therefore, everything that has been entrusted to you is God's. In James 5:1-3, the author of the Book of James provides insight into someone who does NOT make God the Lord of their finances: “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.”. Therefore, let God Be Lord over your finances, which are, in reality, God's finances. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will entrust to Him my future. I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. From 2 Timothy 1:12 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 24:1-10; James 5:1-6; Psalms 25:1-22; Psalms 45:1-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Day of Pentecost – The Promise Fulfilled” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Icon Wars: Has the Church Been Bowing to Idols? How Rome and the East Smuggle Idolatry into Worship Through Sentiment and Bad Arguments “Stop kissing idols.” When God thundered from Sinai, He did not mumble. He did not leave room for clever loopholes. He said: “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image… thou shalt not bow down thyself to them.” Yet for centuries, Rome and the East have tried to explain away what God made plain. In this episode of The Patriarchy Podcast, Pastor Joseph Spurgeon and Zach Krugler step into the Icon Wars. Are icons, statues, relics, and painted images harmless aids to worship… or baptized idolatry dressed up in tradition? The guys break down the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic arguments for icon veneration, including appeals to the incarnation, church history, temple imagery, and “honor passing through the image.” They examine why modern Protestants, exhausted by shallow evangelicalism, are being lured toward ancient aesthetics and mystical sentimentality. They also ask the practical questions many Christians wrestle with: Is every image of Jesus sinful? What about children’s Bibles and movies like The Chosen or The Passion of the Christ? What do we do with relics like the Shroud of Turin? Does church history actually support icon veneration? Can Christians distinguish between honor and worship? This is not a debate about art alone. It is a battle over worship, authority, and whether God gets to decide how He is approached. Faithful men do not improve God’s worship. They obey it. Timestamps 00:00 – Cold Open: “Stop Kissing Idols”02:01 – Introduction to the Icon Wars03:12 – Has God Authorized Religious Images?04:39 – Why Eastern Orthodoxy Is Gaining Ground08:36 – Does Calling Icons Idolatry Mean the Church Fell Away?10:02 – What the Second Commandment Actually Says13:17 – The Bronze Serpent and Corrupted Worship17:24 – Is There a Difference Between Images and Veneration?19:56 – “Jesus Is the Image of God” Argument Examined23:39 – Did Christ Change the Second Commandment?27:33 – The Incarnation and the Logic of Iconography31:36 – Honor vs. Worship: Are They the Same?35:45 – The Regulative Principle of Worship38:20 – Westminster Larger Catechism on Images43:18 – Mental Images of Christ and the Human Imagination47:12 – The Dangers of Modern Depictions of Jesus50:17 – Applying This Debate in Real Life Key Topics Discussed The Second Commandment and worship Eastern Orthodox icon veneration Roman Catholic statues and relics The regulative principle of worship The Westminster Larger Catechism The incarnation and images of Christ Church history and iconoclasm The Shroud of Turin The Chosen and visual depictions of Jesus Idolatry disguised as tradition The King’s Council Men need more than shallow answers and soft leadership. The King’s Council is a gathering for men who want biblical truth, real brotherhood, and strength under the lordship of Christ. Join us June 20 from 5:00–8:00 PM at Sovereign King Church in Jeffersonville, IN. Pastor Michael Clary of Christ the King Church in Fort Thomas, KY will speak on Piety Without Pietism. Food, discussion, and fellowship included. Take your seat at the King’s Council: https://sovereignkingscouncil.com About the Show The Patriarchy Podcast features in-depth conversations on faith, culture, theology, and leadership. Each episode equips Christians to live boldly and biblically in an age of compromise—exploring the challenges and opportunities of standing firm for truth in the modern world. Support the Mission We’re still raising funds to expand Sovereign King Academy and keep tuition affordable for families. Want to invest in the future of Christ’s Kingdom?Give here: https://sovereignkingacademy.com Connect with The Patriarchy Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePatriarchyPodcastSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/58tm5zjzApple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/f3ruzrsaWebsite & All Links: https://linktr.ee/thepatriarchypodcast Follow Joseph Spurgeon:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatriarchyPodcastX/Twitter: https://x.com/PatriarchyPodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatriarchypodcastGab: https://gab.com/thepatriarchypodcast Sponsored By Steadfast Cigars – For men who reject passivity and take dominionOrder: https://steadfastcigars.com/ Fit Father Project – Dr. Balduzzi built the Fit Father Project to help men stop drifting, reclaim discipline, and get strong for life. If you're ready to take ownership of your health, don’t wait. This is the first real step toward lasting strength—for your body, your family, and your legacy. Start: https://secure.fitfatherproject.com/a/transformation/4539 Books by Joseph Spurgeon:It’s Good to Be a Boy – https://a.co/d/7zpEh5DIt’s Good to Be a Girl – https://a.co/d/6VlBTzS Final Call to Action Subscribe for more conversations that sharpen men for battle.Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.Like and share to support biblical masculinity. icons, icon veneration, Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, idolatry, second commandment, graven images, worship idols, Protestant theology, Reformed theology, Westminster Confession, icon worship, biblical worship, regulative principle, Joseph Spurgeon, Patriarchy Podcast, Christian nationalism, theology podcast, false worship, Exodus 20, images of Jesus, Shroud of Turin, The Chosen critique, church history, Protestant vs Orthodox, Christian apologetics, biblical masculinity
Question: What are the reasons annexed to the Second Commandment? Answer: The reasoned annexed to the Second Commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, and the zeal He hath to His own worship. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Question: What is forbidden in the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in His Word. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Preaching through Exodus 20:4-6 on Mother's Day, Pastor Jared Richard makes the case that the Second Commandment is far more relevant to parenting than it might first appear. While the First Commandment addresses the who of worship — worship the right God — the Second Commandment addresses the how — worship the right God in the right way. God's generational language within the command makes His intention unmistakably clear: faithful worship is meant to be passed down from one generation to the next. As Deuteronomy 6:4-9 reminds us, parents are commissioned to imprint God's commands on their own hearts and then impress them upon the hearts of their children. That, Pastor Jared argues, is the number one calling of every mom and dad. Pastor Jared then walks through three lies that idolatry tells about God — that He can be limited, that He can be managed, and that He can be accessed on our own terms rather than His. Using the golden calf of Exodus 32 as a vivid illustration, he shows how even well-intentioned worship can become deeply offensive to God when it distorts who He is. He applies this to the modern church as well, warning against picking and choosing which attributes of God we're comfortable with, and even cautioning that worship music itself can become idolatrous when we treat it as the mediator of God's presence rather than Jesus. The sermon closes with the Gospel promise embedded in the commandment itself. The curse falls upon those who hate God to the third and fourth generation, but the blessing falls upon the faithful for a thousand generations — an exponentially greater promise. Pastor Jared points to Jesus as the only one who ever worshiped the Father in complete faithfulness, and through His death and resurrection, His faithful worship is applied to all who repent and believe. The call to parents is clear: love the Lord your God with everything you have, and love Him so visibly and so joyfully that your children want what you have. WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Take a moment to fill out our digital connection card here: https://www.bayleaf.org/connect We hope you enjoy this programming and please let us know if there is anything we can do to be of service to you. ONE CHURCH. TWO LOCATIONS. ONE MISSION. Bay Leaf at Falls Lake: 12200 Bayleaf Church Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27614 Bay Leaf at 540: 10921 Leesville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613 SERVICE TIMES Come join us on Sundays at Bay Leaf at Falls Lake (8:30 AM or 11:00 AM) or at Bay Leaf at 540 (10:00 AM) CONTACT www.bayleaf.org (919) 847-4477 #BayLeafLife #Worship #Inspiration
Question: What is required in the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in His Word. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Question: Which is the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment is, "thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth, thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
In Week 2 of our Stone series, Sawyer Poitra teaches on the Second Commandment and how it challenges us to stop creating images of God and instead know Him as He truly is. We may not bow to physical idols, but we often create mental versions of God that limit who He is. This message will help you understand how your view of God shapes your relationship with Him—and how to realign it with truth. Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this message. Chapters (00:00:02) - New Life: Teaching(00:00:39) - 10 Commandments(00:02:54) - TikTok Review(00:03:37) - Exodus 20: Loyal Love for a Thousand Generations(00:06:15) - Idols in the Bible(00:13:39) - How Do You See God?(00:19:24) - The 10 Commandments(00:23:55) - He is a Jealous God
Message from Joel Abraham on 25/04/2026
The second commandment is about relationship. It is about reverence. It is about truth. It is about whether the name of God still carries weight in our lives.
All the Episodes of the Heidelcast Subscribe to the Heidelcast! Browse the Heidelshop! On X @Heidelcast On Insta & Facebook @Heidelcast Subscribe in Apple Podcast Subscribe directly via RSS Call The Heidelphone via Voice Memo On Your Phone The Heidelcast is available wherever podcasts are found including Spotify. Call or text the Heidelphone anytime at (760) 618-1563. Leave a message or email us a voice memo from your phone and we may use it in a future podcast. Record it and email it to heidelcast@heidelblog.net. If you benefit from the Heidelcast please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts so that others can find it. Please do not forget to make the coffer clink (see the donate button below). 2026 den Dulk Lectures with Rev. Brian Vos: Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 Join Westminster Seminary California for their Annual den Dulk Lectures on Pastoral Ministry. This year, Rev. Brian Vos will be speaking on the topic of "You Have Need of Endurance." The lectures will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 in the WSC Chapel at 10 am on both days. This event is free and will be livestreamed. Endurance is the great need of the Christian life (Hebrews 10:36); it is also the great need of those called to shepherd God's sheep. The book of Hebrews provides both the reasons and resources needed to endure in pastoral ministry, as it calls us to look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). Learn More SHOW NOTES How To Subscribe To Heidelmedia The Heidelblog Resource Page Heidelmedia Resources The Ecumenical Creeds The Reformed Confessions The Heidelberg Catechism The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic) Recovering the Reformed Confession (P&R Publishing, 2008) Why I Am A Christian What Must A Christian Believe? Heidelblog Contributors Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to: Heidelberg Reformation Association 1637 E. Valley Parkway #391 Escondido CA 92027 USA The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
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This episode is the supplemental material referenced in Part 2 of the "Images of Christ and the Second Commandment" series. In this Sunday school recording, Pastor Adam Parker traces the history of images in the church from the early fathers through the Iconoclast controversy of the 8th century. He examines how the church's original opposition to images gradually gave way as paganism entered the church, and walks through the theological arguments on both sides leading up to the Second Council of Nicaea in 787 AD. This podcast is a ministry of Evergreen Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Beaverton, Oregon. For more information on Evergreen Presbyterian Church visit our website at evergreenpca.com. If you are in the Beaverton area, join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30am.
Pastors Adam Parker and Matthew Poole continue a two-part series on making images of Jesus. In this second episode, they approach the topic theologically and historically. Drawing on Deuteronomy 4 and the 754 AD Council of Hieria, they argue that any depiction of Christ forces the artist into one of two ancient heresies: Nestorianism or monophysitism. They also address The Chosen and why the Reformed opposition to images is not a Reformation novelty, but a recovery of the position held by the early church fathers. This podcast is a ministry of Evergreen Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Beaverton, Oregon. For more information on Evergreen Presbyterian Church visit our website at evergreenpca.com. If you are in the Beaverton area, join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30am.
Pastors Adam Parker and Matthew Poole begin a two-part series on making images of Jesus. In this first episode, they approach the topic pastorally, sharing their own backgrounds with images of Christ in film, art, and church settings, and exploring why even well-intentioned depictions fall short. They discuss what the Westminster Larger Catechism teaches about the sins forbidden in the Second Commandment and make the case that images of Christ offer little practical benefit while training the mind on something invented rather than revealed. The next episode will take a deeper theological dive into why an image of Christ is an image of God and why making one leads inevitably into heresy. This podcast is a ministry of Evergreen Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Beaverton, Oregon. For more information on Evergreen Presbyterian Church visit our website at evergreenpca.com. If you are in the Beaverton area, join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 9:30am.
Ep. 351 | The Power Of Four: The Second Commandment (Exodus 20:4-6) | Chris Conlee | Mar 15, 2026Support the show
Which sin does the Bible emphasize most—and what does it reveal about the dangers of institutionalized disobedience? This article argues that Jeroboam's subtle, respectable-looking idolatry became Israel's most destructive sin and offers striking parallels for Adventist mission and the call to uphold true worship today.
The Law of God and the Christian Life (Lesson 2)
Pastor Zellner sits down and continues the conversation of the Ten Commandments focusing on the Second Commandment. What is the Second Commandment? Why does it mention images? Is it still applicable to me today?
Pastor Zellner sits down and continues the conversation of the Ten Commandments focusing on the Second Commandment. What is the Second Commandment? Why does it mention images? Is it still applicable to me today?
Letting God Be Lord Over Your Finances, which Are His but He Entrusted to You, Will Liberate Your Life! MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are so focused on earning money and other financially driven life activities so that it is easy for money and finances to become our god. Making finances “our god” violates the Second Commandment. If Jesus is Lord over all Creation, as we are told in Psalms 24:1, then: “The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.”; therefore, everything that has been entrusted to you is God's. In James 5:1-3, the author of the Book of James provides insight into someone who does NOT make God the Lord of their finances: “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.”. Therefore, let God Be Lord over your finances, which really are His finances. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 24:1-10; James 5:1-6; Psalms 25:1-22; Psalms 45:1-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 2 – More than Just a Man” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
The Ten Commandments are pretty well known, but what is less known is why God has given them and today, in our study in Exodus 20, we're going to look at this extremely important passage, in its overall context to understand why God gave the Ten Commandments and how they still point to our purpose as His people today. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1. The podcast opened with an explanation of how the 10 Commandments came to the Jews in a form of a covenant that is laid out in Exodus 19 to 24. What was the agreement that the Jews were making with God in this larger context? 2. In Exodus 19:10-11, the Lord tells the people to consecrate themselves before they would hear His laws. Why do you think this step was necessary? How do you think this prepared the people to listen to the Lord's instructions? When you prepare to gather with God's people at church, how do you (or should you) prepare your heart to receive God's truths? 3. The First commandment (in Exodus 20:1) was to have no other gods before the Lord. On the one hand this may seem obvious, but it bears asking the question: Why should nothing come before the Lord? In your own life, is there anything that you've placed in greater worth than Him? 4. The Second Commandment (in Exodus 20:6) ends by commanding the people to not make an idol or likeness of anything that the people might use to represent the Lord in their worship of Him. How do people sometimes violate this command today? How do people often portray the Jesus? Is that how Jesus really looked? In light of this command, should a Christian ever pray to a picture or stature or image of Jesus? 5. The Third Command in verse 7 tells the people to not take the Lord's name in vain. How did the podcast explain what this command relates to? How does it address more than just using the Lord's name as profanity? 6. The Fourth Command was to hold to a Sabbath day of rest each week. What does it mean to keep the Sabbath holy? What kinds of things should have been avoided on that day? How would the obedience of this command shape the entire Jewish culture? Is this command still valid today? 7. What are the remaining six commands given in Exodus 20:12, Exodus 20:13, Exodus 20:14, Exodus 20:15, Exodus 20:16, Exodus 20:17? The podcast points out that all these commands were really the "high level" commands and that each one represented far deeper waters. Which of these commands do you find the most challenging in your own walk with the Lord? 8. The podcast points out that the commands are given in a "You shall not" format. How does this opening wording for these commands make them personal for each person? 9. How would these 10 Commandments set the Jews apart from the surrounding nations? How do they set apart God's people still today? Does your life reflect an obedience to these commands? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.
January 22, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: Second CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Joel 2:1-17; Romans 11:1-24“To confuse the devil, I say, we should always have this holy name in our mouth, so that the devil may not be able to injure us as he wishes.” (Large Catechism I 72)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Have you ever considered that the first person in the Bible to invoke the name of God was the devil? “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1). It's not God's peculiar name, the name He reveals to Moses from the burning bush, but the devil has God's name in his mouth nonetheless. But He uses God's name not for prayer or praise or thanksgiving to the one who created him and the creation around him. He uses it to confuse the issue, to cause injury. Out of envy, he twists God's Word ever so much and thereby profanes His name. Questioning God in such a way makes Him a liar and drags His name through the mud.The proper response to the devil's misuse of God's name would be a proper use of God's name. How is God's name properly used? “We should…call upon it in every trouble…” (Small Catechism, Explanation to the Second Commandment). Eve and Adam were certainly in trouble at that moment. Rather than engage the devil in a debate built on a false invocation of God's name, they should have immediately turned to prayer. Furthermore, God's name is used properly when it is used to apply right teaching (Large Catechism I 64). When the devil says, “Did God really say…?” the proper response according to the Second Commandment is, “Thus says the Lord.” When you have the words of Holy Scripture in your mouth (for there is where you find what the Lord says), you have the holy name of God in your mouth. This confuses the devil because he is used to people simply taking him at his word. But his word does not support the truth. His word is not oriented towards the good. His word is not a living, active, creative word. His words are empty. The devil wants to injure us with his word, and we still bear the wounds of his first injury in the sin that has been passed down to us. But God's Word heals, and whoever calls upon His name will be saved.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.How sweet the name of Jesus sounds In a believer's ear! It soothes our sorrows, heals our wounds, And drives away our fear. (LSB 524:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.
This sermon expounds the Second Commandment, showing that while the First Commandment forbids worshiping false gods, the Second forbids worshiping or representing the true God in any false way. The sermon considers six reasons for this prohibition before considering how the commandment both prohibits images in worship (including nativity scenes, crucifixes with Jesus, children’s Bible illustrations of Christ, etc.) and commends knowing and worshiping God through his self-revelation in Scripture and in the living Word, Jesus Christ.
Did you grow up learning about Bible stories through Sunday school felt boards while holding your storybook picture Bible? Does your grandmother have a picture of blonde-haired, blue-eyed Jesus hanging in her home? Have you watched Mel Gibson's The Passion or Dallas Jenkins' The Chosen and felt as if it helped you to better connect with Jesus' humanity?In this episode, we dive deep into the scope of the Second Commandment - "You shall not make for yourself an idol" - exploring both what Scripture has to say and how it was viewed historically. From Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 4, we unpack God's prohibition against fashioning representations of Himself, including the two-fold command against making and worshiping them. We trace the regulative principle of worship through church history: from early Christian symbols to the Roman Catholic veneration of images, the Reformers' ban under Calvin and the Puritans, and its modern relaxation.Drawing on the golden calf in Exodus 32, we see how "good" intentions don't excuse transgression, as God declares His jealousy and promises blessings for obedience (Exodus 20:5-6). God's holiness (Leviticus 19:2) and invisibility (Romans 1:20; Colossians 1:15) demand faith in the unseen (Hebrews 11:1), not visual aids.We address common concerns: intentions of the heart, classical art, teaching children about Jesus, and more, all while affirming the Westminster Larger Catechism's clear stance against any depiction of the Godhead. Whether you're Reformed or curious, join us for a Scripture-saturated discussion on worshiping God as He commands, especially in the season celebrating the Incarnation.Keep Up with Reformed Faith and Family in the Following Ways:Never miss an episode, article, or a new FREEBIE by joining our weekly newsletter here: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/subscribe/Build your library with our recommended resources: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/recommended-resources/Read the latest articles: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/blog/Download your FREEBIES in our store: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/educational-resources-store/Check out the Gift Shop: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/gift-shop/Good Dog Bible Rebinds: https://reformedfaithandfamily.com/good-dog-designs-and-rebinds/WE HAVE A FAVOR TO ASK! If you are excited about our mission at Reformed Faith and Family to guide men and women as they seek to learn more about Reformed theology and equip families as they disciple their children, then please leave our podcast a 5-star review and share it with a friend. We appreciate each one of our faithful listeners, but we also depend on you to help us get the word out. Thank you for your continued support!
Many Focus on Earning Money and Living a Financially Driven Life Which Lets Money Become Their “god” MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are so focused on earning money and other financially driven life activities so that it is easy for money and finances to become our god. Making finances “our god” violates the Second Commandment. Jesus is Lord over all Creation, as we are told in Psalms 24:1: “The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.”. Therefore, everything that has been entrusted to you is God's. In James 5:1-3, the author of the Book of James provides insight into someone who does NOT make God the Lord of their finances: “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.”. Therefore, let God Be Lord over your finances, which are, in reality, God's finances. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will seek God's perspective on my situation. For I know that in all things God works together for good to those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose. From Romans 8:28 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 24:1-10; James 5:1-6; Psalms 25:1-22; Psalms 45:1-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast (12/17/25), Hank continues answering important questions regarding the celebration of Christmas; questions such as: are Christmas trees idolatrous according to Jeremiah chapter 10? Do images of Jesus violate the Second Commandment? Should Christians participate in the tradition of gift-giving, or is this crass commercialism? And is the virgin birth a miracle or a myth?
Question: What are the reasons annexed to the Second Commandment? Answer: The reasoned annexed to the Second Commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, and the zeal He hath to His own worship. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Question: What is forbidden in the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in His Word. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
This week on G3 Weekly, Scott Aniol covers five major news stories and examines them in light of Scripture:1. Maine Court Bans Mom from Taking Daughter to Church (00:20)A shocking parental-rights case in Maine, where a court barred a mother from taking her daughter to church or reading the Bible during visitation. What does Scripture say about parental authority, the jurisdiction of the state, and obeying God rather than men?2. Kirk Cameron Promotes Annihilationism (03:52)There is a growing controversy surrounding Kirk Cameron's public endorsement of annihilationism. Why are Christian leaders responding so strongly, and what does Scripture actually teach about hell, judgment, and the justice of God?3. AI Used to Translate Bible for 3,300 Languages (08:29)A development promising speed but raising serious questions about precision, missions, and the incarnational nature of gospel ministry4. Jonathan Roumie Claims Atheists Converting via The Chosen (11:07)The viral comments from Jonathan Roumie (The Chosen) and the renewed debate about whether dramatizations of Jesus can rightly function in evangelism—and how they challenge the sufficiency of Scripture and the historic understanding of the Second Commandment.5. Erika Kirk's Jewelry and the Armor of God (13:29)A widely shared interview between Megyn Kelly and Erika Kirk, where religious jewelry was treated as a form of spiritual protection. What does Scripture say about the armor of God, true spiritual warfare, and the danger of placing hope in objects rather than in Christ?For more helpful resources, visit G3+ at plus.g3min.org. Use coupon code G3weekly for $20 off your annual subscription.
Question: What is required in the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in His Word. Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Question: Which is the Second Commandment? Answer: The Second Commandment is, "thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth, thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://gift.ligonier.org/1267/westminster If this podcast has been a blessing to you, try these other podcasts from Ligonier: Renewing Your Mind: https://renewingyourmind.org/ 5 Minutes in Church History: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/ Ask Ligonier: https://ask.ligonier.org/podcast Open Book: https://openbookpodcast.com/ Simply Put: https://simplyputpodcast.com/
Exodus 20:4-6Senior Pastor, Clint PressleySunday November 23, 2025
Today is day 282 and we are studying The Second Commandment. 282. How will idolatry affect you? If I worship and serve idols, I will become like them, empty and alienated from God, who alone can make me whole. (Psalm 115:4–8; Jeremiah 2:11–19; Jonah 2:7–9; Romans 1:18–25) We will conclude today by praying the Prayer 96.For Union with Christ found on page 674 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today is day 281 and we are studying The Second Commandment. 281. How was Jesus tempted to break the first two commandments? Satan tempted Jesus to bow down and worship him, promising him an earthly kingdom without the pain of the Cross. Instead, Jesus served and worshiped God faithfully and perfectly all his life, and calls us to do the same. (Matthew 4:1–11; 16:24; Luke 22:41–44; Philippians 2:8) We will conclude today by praying The Collect for the First Sunday in Lent found on page 605 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today is day 280 and we are studying The Second Commandment. 280. What does the second commandment teach you about hope? It teaches me that my ultimate hope is in God alone, for he alone is God and he made me. I must not look for salvation and fulfillment in myself, another person, my wealth or occupation or status, or any created thing. Only in God will I find perfect love and fulfillment. (Psalm 62; Isaiah 45:20–25; Matthew 6:19–24; 1 Thessalonians 1:9–10) We will conclude today by praying the The Collect for the Fifth Sunday in Lent found on page 606 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today is day 279 and we are studying The Second Commandment. 279. Are idols always images? No. Anything can become an idol if I look to it for salvation from my sin or comfort amid my circumstances. If I place my ultimate hope in anything but God, it is an idol. (1 Samuel 15:23; Ezekiel 14:3–5; Ephesians 5:5; Colossians 3:5) We will conclude today by praying the Proper 13 found on page 618 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
We begin our examination of the second commandment, to not take the Lord's name in vain. Fr. Mike emphasizes that God has revealed his sacred name to us, and it is our duty to treat that name with reverence. He also emphasizes just how easy it is for us to take the Lord's name in vain in our day and age, and how vitally important it is for us to treat his holy name with respect. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2142-2149. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.