04-16-26

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
April 16, 2026
Despite what many say, much of the Bible speaks rather clearly against monotheism. The 10 Commandments begin with the words, 

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:2-3).

It begins by being very clear who this God is, just in case someone was confusing this divine being with which Moses was conversing with the one our neighboring community worships. “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt!” Suddenly, everyone knows who we are talking about. And from there, we hear the command which is to “have no other gods…” This implies multiple gods, though some will be quick to point out the words “Lord” and “God” are capitalized, and “gods” is not. That’s true in English, but in ancient Hebrew, there was no capitalization. English is trying to make a point that may not even be implied in the original language. 

Now let me be clear that I believe there is only one ultimate power in all the universe, and we have attached the word “God” to it, or at least those of us who speak English. But I also believe there are many other gods (I purposely use a lowercase) that we have created and empowered through the energy we give them. Churches have been guilty of making their buildings a god to which they revere beyond the point they should. It becomes a precious idol that must be protected at every cost. I am not suggesting that others things in our lives can’t have importance. It is good to be a steward of your home or car so that it holds up and not costing you more than it should. But at what point does something in our lives gain such importance and power over us that it becomes god-like? It’s a delicate balance, but awareness and prayerful discernment help us navigate it.

Today, I declare with scripture: For me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Help me to honor you, Amazing and Merciful God, with all the other stuff that seeks to hold sway over my life and priorities. Amen.