What is Idolatry in The Bible? Answered!

By Charalampos •  Updated: 03/29/23 •  9 min read

Idolatry is a serious sin according to the Bible. But what exactly is idolatry? What are some examples of it? And how can we avoid it?

In this blog post, we will answer all of those questions! Keep reading to learn more about idolatry and what the Bible has to say about it.

What is Idolatry?

What is idolatry in the bible?

Idolatry is defined as the worship of idols or false gods. It can also involve the worship of things that are not gods, such as money, power, or fame.

Idolatry is a serious sin because it is a form of rebellion against God. When we worship idols, we are putting something else in His place. We are saying that the idol is more important to us than God Himself.

This is an incredibly dangerous attitude to have! Idolatry leads us away from God and can ultimately lead to our destruction.

Biblical Definition of Idols.

In the Bible, the definition of idolatry is: “a representation or symbol of an object of worship“. Idol worship was a common practice in the ancient world, and many idols were made of wood, stone, or metal.

In some cases, idols were also made of human or animal bones or even items such as weapons or tools.

Idols were often used in religious rituals and were believed to possess magical powers. The Bible condemns idol worship, and Throughout the Old Testament, God repeatedly warns the Israelites not to make or worship idols.

In the New Testament, Paul also speaks out against idol worship and exhorts Christians to avoid anything that could lead them into idolatry.

Today, many people no longer believe in the power of idols, but the Bible’s definition of an idol remains relevant. As long as there are things that people place above God in their lives, idols will continue to exist.

As we already mentioned, this is the case with money, power, and fame. People often pursue these things at the expense of their relationship with God.

They may also put their careers or hobbies ahead of their families or other important relationships. In doing so, they are making an idol out of these things.

Reasons Idolatry is Bad.

Why Idolatry is Bad

“You shall have no other gods before me.

“You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,”

Exodus 20:3–5

This passage from Exodus gives us some insight into why God hates idolatry. But it also helps us to understand why idolatry is bad for us as well. Let’s see what we can learn from it.

1. False Gods.

The first reason idolatry is bad is that it involves worshiping false deities. As Exodus 20:3 says, “You shall have no other gods before me.” There are many false gods that people worship today. Some worship money or power. Others worship celebrities or sports figures. And still, others worship themselves.

2. Worshiping The Creation.

The second reason idolatry is bad is that it often involves worshiping the creation rather than the Creator. Exodus 20:4 says, “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.”

When we worship the creation, we are putting something inferior to God in the place of God. We are elevating something that is not worthy of our worship.

3. Breaking God’s Commandments.

The third reason idolatry is bad is that it breaks God’s ten commandments. Exodus 20:5 says, “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”

When we worship idols, we are breaking the first and second commandments. And as this passage shows, God takes obedience to His commandments very seriously.

Important: Don’t confuse idols with icons of Saints. An icon is a religious image, whether in the form of a statue, painting, or other representation, that helps us to remember and venerate the saints. Icons are not idols because they are not worshiped. They are venerated (shown respect).

4. Missing Out on The Blessings of Obedience.

The fourth reason idolatry is bad is that it means missing out on the blessings of obedience. When we worship false gods, we are not worshiping the one true God. And as a result, we miss out on all the blessings that come from obedience to Him.

5. Bringing God’s Judgment on Ourselves.

The fifth and final reason idolatry is bad is that it brings God’s judgment to ourselves and our families.

When we worship idols, we are provoking God to anger. And as Exodus 20:5 shows, God will judge us for our idolatry, even to the third and fourth generation.

Examples of Idolatry in The Bible.

Examples of Idolatry in The Bible

Now that we’ve seen what the Bible has to say about idolatry, let’s take a look at some specific examples of it from Scripture.

1. Colossians 3:5

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.

2. Revelation 9:20

The rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk.

3. Leviticus 19:4

Do not turn to idols or make metal gods for yourselves. I am the LORD your God.

4. Judges 10:14

Go and cry out to the gods you have chosen. Let them save you when you are in trouble!

5. Psalm 135:15-18

The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, and eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.

These are some of the most notable examples of idolatry in the Bible. As we can see, idolatry is a serious offense in the eyes of God, and it’s something that we should avoid at all costs.

Only God is worthy of our worship, and we should never put anything or anyone else in His place. If you find yourself struggling with idolatry, ask God to help you overcome it and to give you a heart that is fully devoted to Him. He will be faithful to do so!

Read Also: What is Theosis?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Idolatry in The Bible - FAQs

What is An Idol in The Bible?

Idolatry extends beyond the worship of gods and images. An idol is anything that we place above God in our lives. It can be something that we pursue at the expense of our relationship with God. It can be something that we worship instead of God. Or it can be something that we put ahead of God in our lives.

In the modern age, there are many idols that people religious worship. These can include money, power, status, possessions, pleasure, and even relationships. Many of these things are not intrinsically bad. However, when we place them above God in our lives, they become idols.

What Does The Bible Say About Idolizing Celebrities?

There’s no denying that celebrities have a certain allure. They often seem to lead glamorous, exciting lives and we can’t help but be fascinated by them.

However, the Bible has a lot to say about idolizing celebrities and being obsessed with them. In the book of Exodus, God warns against worshiping false idols. And in Matthew 6:24, Jesus says:

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”

When we obsess over celebrities, we are effectively putting them above God in our lives.

We are more interested in what they’re doing and saying than we are in following God’s Word. This is dangerous territory and it’s something that the Bible warns us against time and again.

So if you find yourself idolizing a celebrity, it’s important to step back and refocus your attention on what matters – your relationship with God.

How Many Times is Idolatry Mentioned in The Bible?

Idolatry is mentioned over 50 times in the Bible, making it clear that God disapproves of this practice. While some people may think that idolatry is a harmless way to express their spirituality, the Bible makes it clear that it is a sin.

When worshiping idols, people are putting something else before God. This can be dangerous, as it can lead people away from the one true God.

Additionally, idolatry can be used to control and manipulate people. Those who worship idols are often required to give sacrifices or perform other acts that are against their will. As a result, idolatry is a sin that should be avoided.

What Did Jesus Christ Say About Idols?

As we said, in Matthew 6:24, Jesus says: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”

This verse makes it clear that we cannot serve both God and money. And since an idol is anything we put before God, this would include serving idols.

So what did Jesus say about idols? He said that we cannot serve them. We are to love God above all else and put Him first in our lives.

Final Thoughts

Idolatry is a serious sin in the Bible. It’s often defined as worshipping anything other than God, but it can also be giving something more importance to something else than what it deserves.

When we put things before God, we are committing idolatry and turning our backs on Him.

This not only displeases Him, but it has serious consequences for our lives. We hope this article has helped you understand what idolatry is and why it’s such a bad thing.

Charalampos

Charalampos is an Orthodox Christian who wants to help others learn about Christianity. His main goal is to help people understand the Bible and how to apply its teachings in their everyday lives. He also enjoys spending time with his family, playing sports, and hiking.

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