Is it possible you may be guilty of some form of idolatry? The sin of idolatry is more common than you might think.
Idolatry sounds so Old Testament. Is it possible that you have an idol?
Before you say no, consider these facts. Idolatry was one of ancient Israel’s major problems. In fact, it was this specific sin that led to the destruction and captivity of both the kingdom of Israel and Judah.
Idolatry is not just an ancient sin uncovered by archaeology. It is far more than an Old Testament problem. Paul, the devoted apostle to the Gentile Christians, warned that idolatry is real trouble for true believers.
In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul recounted the tragic history of Israel. It is history that every human being needs to learn not to repeat. Referring expressly to Israel, he stated, “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play” (1 Corinthians 10:6-7).
Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to be aware that idolatry is a problem that all must be on guard against—especially the religious. Why? This sin opens up the floodgate to a host of other sins. Study the passage through verse 14. Paul lists the sins of fornication, tempting (or testing) Christ, and murmuring—which means complaining against those in authority (a violation of the First Commandment). He repeats that these sins were recorded for us, “upon whom the ends of the world are come” (verse 11). Then Paul warns that we must examine ourselves to see if we are guilty of such sins (verse 12).
In verse 13, Paul warns that we will be tempted to commit such sins—because the end times are lawless times (see also 2 Timothy 3:1-5). For emphasis, he repeats, “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14). We must take this subject seriously.
Idolatry carries deadly consequences. The laws of ancient Israel demanded that idolaters be executed. Even though the leaders of ancient Israel didn’t always exact that penalty, God eventually did—to millions. Jerusalem was literally burned to the ground at the time of Nebuchadnezzar. The majority of its inhabitants were either starved to death or mercilessly slaughtered by the sword—including the elderly and young children. The rest went into captivity as slaves. We must learn this lesson of history or repeat it!
The truth of the matter is that idolatry is a common sin in our time. If not repented of by all nations and individuals, the outcome for our time will be far worse than for that of our ancestors. We are destined to face unparalleled disaster! Because of idolatry, God is allowing humankind to bring itself to a point just short of annihilation. Bible prophecy warns that just ahead of us there is certain to be drought, famine, starvation, disease epidemics and massive destruction brought about by nuclear war. If Jesus Christ does not stop short the Great Tribulation by His Second Coming, not one human would be left alive (Matthew 24:21-22). There has been no time like it on Earth—and never will be again—thankfully!
No one need suffer the penalty of idolatry. It is time to get to know the true God. It is time for us to smash our idols.
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