New City Catechism, Week 9 (Question 9)

Q: What does God require in the first, second, and third commandments?

Children’s answer

A: First, that we know God as the only true God. Second, that we avoid all idolatry. Third, that we treat God’s name with fear and reverence.

Adult/older children’s answer

A: First, that we know and trust God as the only true and living God. Second, that we avoid all idolatry and do not worship God improperly. Third, that we treat God’s name with fear and reverence, honoring also his Word and works.

Video explanation:

Song to assist with memorization:

Relevant Scripture to read:

Deuteronomy 6:13–14

It is the Lord your God you shall fear. Him you shall serve and by his name you shall swear. You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are around you.

Children’s Activity (printable pdfs)

Younger Kids (pages 18 and 19)

Older Kids (pages 18 and 19)

Special thanks to Del Rey Church for sharing their New City Catechism kid resources with us!

Devotional questions for individual/family/group discussion:

  1. How would these commands have been good news to Israel after leaving Egypt?

  2. How would these commands have marked Israel out as different from the nations around them?

  3. Where, besides God, do you look for your ultimate “satisfaction and security”?

  4. What are some ways that we can be tempted to speak for God where He has not spoken?

  5. What are some ways our corporate worship can reveal our commitment to following these commandments?

For an additional “deeper” dive into this question and answer, check out this video from Dr. Michael Allen (many of the devotional questions are based on his explanation):