God opposes idols. A bit of rambling about how to identify them.
- These thoughts stem from thoughts about what idol worship did for people in the Bible.
- Exodus 20 contains the Ten Commandments. Right after reminding the Israelites He is the God who freed them, he demands their first affection and forbids them making idols.
- An idol grabs affections that belong to God.
- In the context of Exodus 20:2-4, idols would diminish or deny the glory and grace of God.
- An idol offers false comfort only God can bring.
- An idol is often worshiped fitting in with others.
- We can craft idols with our hands, worshiping our work rather than the one who gave us creative abilities in the first place.
- Idols can be people or animals, trusting in them to take the place of God the Creator.
- Biblically, worship of idols led to sexually immoral practices.
- Taking a stand against an idol can take courage and lead to significant backlash.
- Challenge: What idols compete for your allegiance to Jesus?