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In all our hearts there is a tendency to depart from God, to forget what He commands, "to go after what He forbids. This forbidden path is described.

1. It is entered by many. The path of "the people," "the gods" of the age. Idolatry of every kind is the root and nourisher of error and superstition — the expression and epitome of human nature — the foul dishonour to God and His supremacy. "Go not after other gods to serve them and to worship them" (Jeremiah 25:6).

2. It is offensive to God. It stirs up God's anger and rouses His jealousy. Bishop Patrick observes that we never find in law or prophets, anger, or fury, or jealousy, or indignation attributed to God, but upon occasion of idolatry.

3. It is destructive in its end. "Destroy thee from off the face of the earth." Idolatry corrupts the body and petrifies the heart. Like a withering mildew it overspreads the earth and blights the nations. The warning voice from above should be heard: "Ye shall bear the sins of your idols, and ye shall know that I am the Lord God."

(J. Wolfendale.)

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KJV: Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;

WEB: You shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the peoples who are around you;