Hey there,
Have you ever found out years later that a song you love has a deeper meaning?
One of my favorites, “Hotel California” by The Eagles, with lyrics about checking out, but you can never leave … is a veiled reference to the greed of the music industry that traps musicians.
John Lennon said that his timeless hit “Imagine” is actually a Communist Manifesto.
Lots of things can have a deeper meaning than what we first read.
Take the first Commandment for example:
“I am the Lord thy God: thou shalt not have strange gods before me.”
We believe there is only one true God, so we can add a checkmark next to that commandment. Right?
As Lee Corso would say, “Not so fast!”
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the meaning behind the First Commandment’s idolatry goes beyond worshiping a different god. It also includes anything that you may put ahead of God, like money. And avoiding things that involve black magic and sorcery, like astrology. And I’ve just scratched the surface.
Since following the Ten Commandments directly affects our ability to get to heaven, this week’s issue of Genuflect takes a deep dive into the meanings of the First Commandment. So we all can make sure we’re not unknowingly breaking this important Commandment.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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The First Commandment
In a question and answer format, Catholic News Agency explains what the first commandment is … and the many ways it can be broken. On its surface, it seems like a very easy commandment to follow. But as you’ll see, there’s a lot more to it. You may be surprised.
Lesson 30: On The First Commandment | Catholic News Agency
Why is The First Commandment First?
Have you ever wondered why the first commandment is the first commandment? Why not speak of murder, stealing, or adultery first? The reasons that Hunter Leonard lays out here makes perfect sense and shows why idolatry has to be the first commandment.
Why is The First Commandment First? | Catholic Stand
Is Praying to Saints Idolatry?
Nate Guyear says the Catholic Church teaches praying to the Saints is not idolatry and in fact, we are encouraged to pray for their intercession. It comes down to the difference between praying and worshiping.
Is Praying to the Saints Idolatry? | Catholicism Explained
Modern Idolatry
Fr Robert McTeigue believes modern man is guilty of self worship. He explains how we should prioritize our life based on the first commandment. And he challenges each to sit down and reflect on this one thing with honesty and prayer..
Modern Idolatry: Rarely Confessed, or Even Considered | Aleteia
Discerning Idols in Our Lives
Is it possible for something inherently good to become an idol that we worship? Estefania Garcia believes it is. Here’s her personal story, her aha! Moment, and her recommendations for discerning if you’re worshiping a false idol.
God First: Discerning Where Idols Are in Our Lives | Busted Halo
The First Commandment And Occultism
You may think of devil worship when you hear the word occult. But according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, you don’t have to worship Satan to be guilty of occultism. The first commandment and the magisterium specifically forbid us from “all practices of magic or sorcery.” Here’s what you need to know.
The Occult Disposes us to Satan | Simply Catholic
Satanic Black Mass Proves Catholicism
When satanists perform a black mass, they are usually mocking the Catholic Mass, turning it towards satan and desecrating a Eucaristic host. While this is evil and a mortal sin, Joseph Heschmeyer sees this as confirmation as to the truth of Catholicism. Hear him out.
How The Satanic Black Mass Proves The Truth of Catholicism | ChurchPOP
genuflect: related
You may enjoy Genuflect’s other articles about the 10 Commandments:
Following God’s Directions: The Ten Commandments
Removing Blasphemy From Your Vocabulary
Remembering to Keep Holy The Sabbath
Honoring Your Father And Your Mother
The Fifth Commandment’s Call to Respect Human Life
Uncovering The Sin of Adultery
Stealing: It’s About Respecting More Than Property
NOT Bearing False Witness Against Your Neighbor
Uncovering The Sin of Adultery
Coveting Your Neighbor’s Goods
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Inspiration on Your Desktop And Phone
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