Idolatry is worshiping other things besides the one true God. Consistently throughout the Bible it is made very clear that idolatry is unacceptable.
In the times of the Bible, most people worshiped gods and goddesses made of stone, wood or sometimes precious metals. God condemns the worship of such objects. No matter what the idol is made of, it is still a lifeless object with no power or character. It definitely has no power to save us from our sins! Idolatry is not only foolish but is a major sin in the eyes of God.
Idolatry worships the creature rather than the creator
How can intelligent people turn to idolatry? Idolatry begins when people reject what they know about God.
Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. Romans 1:22-23
Instead of looking to God as the creator and sustainer of life, idol worshipers see themselves as the center of the universe. They soon invent “gods” that are convenient projections of their own plans and decrees. These gods may be wooden figures, but they may also be goals or things we pursue such as money, power or comfort. Whatever it is the main point is that idolaters worship the things God made rather than God himself.
Questions to ask your self:
- Is there anything you feel you can’t live without?
- Is there any priority greater than God?
- Do you have a dream you would sacrifice everything to realise?
- Does God take first place?
- Do you worship God or idols of your own making?
- Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God?
Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)
An idol is any person, position or pursuit that captures too much of your affection or attention.
If you spend a lot of time following the life of a movie star or rock star then maybe that is your idol. Another example, maybe spending a lot of time devoted to using and maintaining a recreational boat. This could make that boat your idol – it is taking your time away from worshiping God. Greed is the wanting more of something. In this modern age of seeing advertising everywhere, greed is something which is likely to continue growing. Advertisers use such phrases as “you deserve it” or “you need it”. However, greed is like a cancer which eats into us – the more we get, the more we want – we are never satisfied!
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Forty years ago people were satisfied with the small black and white televisions, then in this Generations everyone had to have the Smartphones (Social Media)and Smart Devices and now it is essential to have the virtual reality in your lifes. Yet greed is idolatry according to the Bible.
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. Colossians Ch.3:5-6
Putting God first
So in the future, if we want to avoid idolatry, what do we need to do?
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians Ch.4:8-9
We need to put God first.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew Ch.6:33
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians Ch.3:2
(Source taken from http://www.bridgetothebible.com)