The Toxic Effects of Religious Idolatry

BRANDON HANKS / July Newsletter

QUOTE

“Why did our culture largely abandon God as its Hope? I believe it was because our religious communities have been and continue to be filled with these false gods. Making an idol out of doctrinal accuracy, ministry success, or moral rectitude leads to constant internal conflict, arrogance and self-righteousness, and oppression of those whose views differ. These toxic effects of religious idolatry have led to widespread disaffection with religion in general and Christianity in particular. Thinking we have tried God, we have turned to other Hopes, with devastating consequences.” - Tim Keller, Counterfeit Gods
 
It is always easier for us, myself included, to see the brokenness happening around us, but miss in our self-deception the brokenness that lies within each of us. What Tim Keller identifies is a sobering thought, especially when you take into consideration our collective witness as the Church. We know that sin has a blinding effect. So what if Tim Keller is right? What are the implications for us, our ministries, and our communities?

REFLECTION
 
“Those who pay regard to vain idols forsake their hope of steadfast love.” - Jonah 2:8 ESV
 
Have you seen these idols of doctrinal truth, ministry fruitfulness, and moral rightness in your own life and ministry? In your congregation? In your geographical region? How have these idols divided us as persons? How have these idols divided the local, regional, and world-wide church rather than unite us?
 
Why have these idols, in particular, been a temptation to serve? What do we believe they give us that leads us away from God and trusting Him?
 

PRAYER
 
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” - Hebrews 4:16
 
Before we lament to the Lord about what’s happening around us in our culture, let us first cry out to God in prayer for forgiveness, and repent of the idols we have entertained as His people.
 
“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of Your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.” - Winfield Bevins, Field Guide for Daily Prayer