Lesson 6 - Idolatry
When we value, love, or pursue anything or
anyone more than God, it becomes an idol to us. Idols are not just carved objects
or statues. They are our innermost desires that can take the form of a job,
material goods, a goal, or even people and loved ones we depend upon more than
God for security and happiness. God is very clear that nothing should take His
place in our lives. Not only is it the first commandment in the Old Testament, but
also the greatest commandment according to Jesus in the New Testament.
Exodus 20:3 - You must not have any other
god but me.
Matthew
22:36-40 - Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the Law
of Moses? Jesus replied, You must love the Lord
your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the
first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your
neighbor as yourself. The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are
based on these two commandments.
Ezekiel 14:3 - Son
of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced
things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their
requests?
Psalm 24:3-5 - Who
may climb the mountain of the Lord?
Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who
do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the Lord’s blessing and have a right
relationship with God their savior.
*What is the reward for not worshiping idols?
Ephesians 5:5 -
You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit
the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater,
worshiping the things of this world.
Colossians
3:5-6 - So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you.
Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires.
Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of
this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.
*In the above scriptures, who is an idolater and what do they worship?
1 Corinthians
10:12-14 - If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.
The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And
God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can
stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols.
*What is God’s promise to us when we are tempted by idols?