UECF.NET study companion — original commentary, not the book's own text.
This chapter presses the exclusivity of true worship. Just as ancient Israel was warned against bowing to any god but the LORD, Tozer warns that modern worshipers can quietly substitute lesser objects of devotion — success, comfort, reputation, even good religious causes — for the living God Himself. Worship offered to anything less than the eternal God, however sincere, misses its mark.
The chapter calls believers back to a singular devotion: God alone is worthy, and anything that competes for that place, however good it looks, must be set down. Tozer points to Jesus Himself, who, tempted in the wilderness to misdirect His worship, answered simply from Scripture: worship and serve God only (Matthew 4:10).
Key points
- The first commandment is not only ancient history; it names a live danger for every generation.
- Substitute objects of worship are often good things turned into ultimate things.
- True worship refuses to divide its devotion.
- Jesus Himself, tempted to misdirect worship, answered with Scripture: worship and serve God only.
Scripture (read on NKJV)
- Exodus 20:3–5 — "You shall have no other gods before Me."
- Matthew 4:10 — Jesus answers Satan's temptation to worship him
- Deuteronomy 6:13 — "You shall fear the LORD your God and serve Him."
Reflect
- What “good things” in your life could quietly be competing with God for first place?
- How did Jesus respond to the temptation to misdirect worship (Matthew 4:10), and what does that model for you?
- What would it look like this week to consciously set the eternal God back in first place?
Prayer
Lord, You alone are worthy of worship. Forgive us for the quiet idols we have allowed to share Your throne. Purify our devotion, and let our worship belong to You alone. Amen.