Podcasts about Idolatry

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

A Reason For Hope with Pastor Scott Richards! Sharing the Word one question of the heart at a time. Tags: Iran War, Jericho, and Idolatry

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Trump memes depict the United States' leader as a superhero fighting crime raising his Bible and praying for the people. It gets sickening.Israel in Bible prophecy as the echo of Esther and the deal with saving Israel. Blood moon indicators symbolize when Israel has conflict. Especially during the time of Purim.Who is connected with Epstein? Certainly not the Clintons.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Chapter 25 gives us the worst sin of this generation - the seduction and idolatry at Baal Peor. But why were Israel not condemned as they were at the sin of the Golden Calf? Possibly because this was a deliberately planned attempt by the enemy (Midyan, Moav and Bilaam) to subvert and corrupt the Israelites.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Old Testament Sermons / Speaker:Berry Kercheville The post Jeremiah 10 – The Idolatry of Scarecrows appeared first on Woodland Hills Church of Christ.

Message from Rev. Jason Palacio on March 15, 2026

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesExodus 32 is a picture of the human condition. Like the Israelites, we have been breaking God's laws, making idols and worshipping our own gods. Three ways Moses dealt with the idolatrous behavior of the Israelites:1. ConfrontationMoses confronted Aaron and the people publicly.He broke the tablets.He destroyed the golden calf.2. Warned against making excuses for sins committed and shifting blamesMoses held Aaron fully responsible for what he had done.Instead of repenting of his sin, Aaron made excuses and shifted the blame to others for his sin.3. Moses challenged the people to make a choice between two camps, God and satan, truth and falsehood, holiness and sins. On whose side are you?God demands clear and public allegiance in the midst of compromise.In the warfare between good and evil, there is a need for taking sides.We can not remain neutral and truth can not be divided.Discussion Questions1. What do we do when confronted about our sins?2. Is there anything that displaces God in our hearts?3. Is there anything that competes with God for our devotion and worship?4. What do we desire or what do we pursue?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Anthony Kowbeidu ().

We will always struggle to keep God as the center of our worship and satisfaction. Just like the verse in Come Thou Fount says, “Prone to wander, Lord I feel it. Prone to leave the God I love,” I definitely feel that pull. Even as a redeemed child of God, I struggle with my sin nature and will continue to fail and need to repent. While you and I will not be perfect in this life, we can make progress. That's what I'd like to focus on today. How can you and I as Christians seeking to love God with all our hearts, souls, and strength avoid common traps that lead to idolatry? While there are many great ways to do this, I'd like to share three practical tips to fight idolatry that have been extremely helpful in my own walk with the Lord. The first is to develop the habit of spiritual disciplines. Spiritual disciplines are practices we do because they aid us in our relationship with God. The two most powerful spiritual disciplines are prayer and Bible reading. I can't even begin to describe how important these practices have been in my life. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2). Surely the pattern of this world includes idolatry. Don't you constantly hear messages that call you to put our hope in something other than God? But when I come to his Word on a regular basis, my mind is renewed. I see that thing, whatever it is, I have been placing my trust in is empty and will fail every time. I read about God's character—how he is steadfast, and sustains his people, how his love never fails, and he is powerful. As I pray and confess my need for him and praise him for his character, my mind is renewed and I am less likely to fall into the trap of looking to worthless things to satisfy me. What would it look like for you to prioritize prayer and Bible reading as a regular part of life to orient your mind and affections toward the Lord? The next tip for fighting against idolatry is similar and takes the practice of Bible reading a step further. I have found it very helpful to spend time meditating on God's character. Now the word meditate in our current setting can often mean emptying or clearing your mind and just being present in the here and now. However, Biblical meditation is very different. It is not clearing the mind but actively setting the mind on truth and choosing to focus on that truth and mull it over—to steep in it and consider it from all angles. Remember, even though you and I know idolatry proves fruitless, the pull and want of certain things is extremely powerful, sometimes ridiculously powerful. If you are struggling with a disordered love, something you feel you have to have or hold so dear that it has taken God's place in your heart, if that's you, I would commend you to meditate on God's attributes. As you read your Bible, take time to stop and ask yourself, what is this teaching me about God? What does this show me of his character? And then stop and ponder it. Maybe keep a notebook where you list what you learn about God from scripture. Pray about it. Talk with God about his character. Praise him, thank him, draw near to him. When was the last time you sat and marveled at who God is? It is so difficult to do in a world that is constantly rushing to the next thing! Meditation takes discipline and practice, and I need to cultivate that in my life more as well because it is so worthwhile. A passage that might be helpful to start meditating on is Isaiah 46. That passage provides a wonderful contrast between false gods that vie for our hearts and the one true God. Listen to how verses 1-2 describe idols. Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low; their idols are borne by beasts of burden. The images that are carried about are burdensome, a burden for the weary. They stoop and bow down together; unable to rescue the burden, they themselves go off into captivity (Isaiah 46:1-2). The idols of the world are a burden for the weary. The text paints a picture of someone stooping low because they are so weighed down by their idols. Idols burden the worshippers have no power to unburden but instead lead to captivity. However, the one true God could not be more different. Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob, all the remnant of the people of Israel, you whom I have upheld since your birth, and have carried since you were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. With whom will you compare me or count me equal? To whom will you liken me that we may be compared (Isaiah 46:3-5)? Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me (Isaiah 46:9). In contrast to idols, the God of the Bible is described as someone who upholds his people, who carries them in love; he bears their burdens. He sustains his people and rescues them. He brings his righteousness and salvation near to us. As I ponder the goodness of a God who not only sees my need but is powerful and willing to help me, I am less likely to run after hollow substitutes. Meditation on God's character will also fortify your heart. We grow in the habits of prayer, Bible reading, and meditation, but I also think it is important to consider the relationship between idolatry and discontentment. Really, they are very similar. Idolatry is a lack of contentment in the Lord. It is saying, “Lord, I see you, but I want more. I need something else to satisfy me. You are not enough for my soul.” If idolatry springs from discontentment in the Lord, wouldn't it make sense to be active in cultivating contentment in order to guard our hearts? In Philippians 4:13, we find the beautiful and popular verse I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Sadly, this verse is often misunderstood to mean that whatever I want to do, I am able to do because Christ will help me. But that is not what this verse is saying. We can see the true meaning by looking at the context of the verse. What is Paul talking about? He is talking about contentment. He has just said he learned the secret of being content no matter what the circumstances, and it is that he can do all things through Christ. In this context we could even say the verse is revealing that the Christian can bear all things or endure anything through Christ. That means whether my bank account is full or I'm broke, if I have Christ, I am secure. Whether I have a beautiful family or lose everyone I love, if I have Christ, I am rooted in a love that is sure and unshakable. Whether life is easy and comfortable and I experience the riches of God's blessing or every day is painful and suffering seems to come in waves, if I am in Christ, the God of all comfort will minister to my soul and use all things for my ultimate good. Are you content in Christ? Can you truly say, Jesus is enough? Can you declare, his grace is sufficient for all your needs? It is normal if there are times when faith comes easier and when it is hard. Jesus was tempted as we are and knows the pull of our hearts away from the Father. But as you seek to grow in contentment, as you meditate on the character of God, as you take time to be in his word and pray, the Lord will meet you and draw your heart to himself. The words from the song Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus have proved so true in my life and I pray they will in yours too. “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.” May it be so. Amen.

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Presented by Jenn Miller What do you do when you find idolatry in your heart? I think one of the dangers of spending time analyzing a certain sin is it can sometimes leave us with a lot of understanding and conviction of the sin without help to know how to change. I hope you will see the great mercy and grace available through Jesus to all who are caught in idolatry. God cares greatly about the hearts of his people because he knows that what is best for us is to worship him—that is what we were created to do. He is worthy of your praise and jealous for your worship. God reveals areas in your heart that have idolized something above him not to condemn you but to give you the opportunity to repent. Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23)! If you see idolatry in your heart, know it doesn't change God's great love for you. His compassion toward you is still as real today as ever. His mercy and faithfulness are great. So come to God in prayer and confess whatever it is you have looked to for security, comfort, hope, or satisfaction instead of him. Ask the Lord to give you eyes to see his beauty and worth and to draw your heart to love him above all else. God blesses the poor in spirit—those who recognize their need for him and depend on him to rescue them in sin. Because of Jesus' death on the cross, forgiveness is available to all who confess their sin and trust in Jesus as their savior. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Won't you come today and lay down your idols for something so much greater? For Jesus Christ himself. If you recognize idols in your heart, know that through Jesus, you are not condemned but invited to repent.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Presented by Jenn Miller Is it really that big of a deal if I have little idols in my heart? Since we are naturally sinful and are prone wander, why does God care so much about idolatry? These questions are good to think through. Even though idolatry is common in the human heart, the Bible says it is extremely dangerous. In Exodus 20, God commanded his people to have no other god before him. Before giving this command, he described his relationship with the people. He was their God and they were his people. He rescued them and called them into special relationship. Therefore, he cared for them and was rightly jealous when their hearts wandered from him. God cares about you today as well. If you have turned from your sin and trusted in Jesus as your savior, God has chosen you to be his child, and he cares about your relationship with him. He has designed you so you are most satisfied and whole when you worship him alone. Any other worship robs you of true joy and will eventually leave you empty, hollow, and lost. Psalm 115 describes idols as having mouths but unable to speak, having eyes but not seeing, having ears but not hearing. They are incapable of action or service to the worshipper. But then verse 8 says something striking. Those who make them will become like them, and so will all who trust in them (Psalm 115:8). As my heart runs after substitutes for God himself, I actually become less. Idols rob us. This is because idols are the tools of Satan to lure our hearts. Remember Jesus' words in John 10 where he warns us that the thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. This is the work of idols. But Jesus has come so we might have life to the full. If you recognize idols in your heart, know that through Jesus, you are not condemned but invited to repent.

In about 50 A.D., twenty years after Jesus Death Resurrection and Ascension Paul of Tarsus, one sent with authority by Jesus the Lord, to preach the Good News to the nations arrived in the City of Corinth, a prominent city of the Roman empire located on the trade route connecting the Aegean and Ionian seas. He immediately began announcing the Good News: "The Crucified Jesus is the True Lord of the world."  Those believing the message were shepherded into house churches.  Then Paul preached, taught and pastored in Corinth for 18 months before moving on to other cities of the empire. See Acts 18 In 53 A.D. Paul, now in Ephesus, receives letters from the Church at Corinth and from the household of a woman named Chloe, a leader in the church.  These letters revealed alarming divisions, cliques, sexual immorality, lawsuits against fellow members, abuse of the Lord's supper, unbelief in the resurrection of Jesus, and much more within the Corinthian church.  Making things worse, Paul was being mocked as a phony apostle by members of the church in Corinth. Paul writes the 1st letter to Corinth from Ephesus in 53 A.D. to address the beliefs and behaviors of this charismatic, but grossly immature and divided church. Those today who seek to build "new creation" churches within the American empire will be blessed by this great letter.  We will make a special point of discerning in 1 Corinthians the character of wisdom and foolishness, freedom and license, as well as spiritual and childish. Come join us in this series of Podcasts on "Freedom and the Corinthians" as we "eat Corinthians" together, growing in maturity in Christ together.

Which sin does the Bible emphasize most—and what does it reveal about the dangers of institutionalized disobedience? This article argues that Jeroboam's subtle, respectable-looking idolatry became Israel's most destructive sin and offers striking parallels for Adventist mission and the call to uphold true worship today.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

Presented by Jenn Miller We've been examining how easily idolatry can slip into our hearts. We looked at how idols keep us from loving the Lord completely—with all our heart, soul, and strength. It can be easier to spot an idol of the heart when it is clearly a sinful behavior or desire. But sometimes we even twist God's good gifts into idols. Numbers 21 is an example of this. It describes a time when the Israelites were in the wilderness and were being bit by venomous snakes. God graciously gives Moses the provision of a rod with a serpent for the people to look at and be healed. But then years later, in 2 Kings 18:4, we find the Israelites burning incense and worshiping the rod with the serpent around it. Do you see what is happening? The people received God's good gift, but then they worshipped the gift instead of the giver. Isn't that so easy to fall into? Augustine taught about “disordered loves”—things that are not bad in and of themselves, but their place in our hearts has become disordered. Anything you desire more than God himself is a disordered love. The good gifts of a spouse, job, beautiful home, health, children, honorable reputation, wealth, or earthly comforts can take too great a priority in our hearts if you and I are not careful. We should receive all of God's gifts with gratitude and joy, but we must hold them loosely and always prize God himself over and above anything else. I pray God will help us properly love all his good gifts in the right order.

Trump memes depict the United States leader as a superhero fighting crime raising his Bible and praying for the people. It gets sickening.Israel in Bible prophecy as the echo of Esther and the deal with saving Israel. Blood moon indicators symbolize when israel has conflict. Especially during the time of Purim.Who is connected with Epstein? Certainly not the Clintons.

Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.

It is because God wants us to be safe that He warns against the idols of our hearts. Today, Sinclair Ferguson explains the danger that idolatry poses and the true safety that lies only in the Lord. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/the-danger-of-idolatry/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Presented by Jenn Miller Idolatry is when we turn to anything besides God for our fulfilment, security, hope, or comfort. John Calvin once gave a great image of the human heart. He called it an idol making factory. Just picture that. In other words, idolatry comes so naturally to us because of our sin nature. And we are blind to idols of our heart. How can you and I identify areas of idolatry so we can turn away from them? Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength (Deuteronomy 6:5). Anything that prevents my heart from loving God completely is an idol. I have found the following questions helpful when seeking to identify idols in my life. First, is there anything you love so much, if you were to lose it, life would just be over for you or you don't think you could go on? If your answer is yes, that thing has probably become an idol for you. Is there something you want so much you are willing to sin to get it? Or do you respond sinfully when you don't get something you want? Those are marks of idolatry. These questions can be hard to ask, but they are helpful in revealing things that have crept into my heart to take the Lord's rightful place. When you love God with all your heart, soul, and strength, you can face any loss because your hope is found only in the Lord. You long to please him above anything else. Sinful behaviors or desires can be idols, but even good things can become idols.

Most believers think idolatry only means bowing to a false god. But idolatry is often far more subtle. It can be compromise. It can be misplaced priorities. It can even be a distorted perception of who God truly is. You become like what you worship. And if your perception of God is distorted, it will affect everything about your life. This teaching on idolatry by David Diga Hernandez will challenge you to examine your priorities, correct false perceptions, and return to wholehearted devotion to the one true God. Say yes to the Holy Spirit. Say no to the idols of this world.   The Encounter Podcast Ep.81

Presented by Jenn Miller We are examining idolatry. Often when I hear that word, I can think of an image or a statue that is worshipped. That definitely falls into the category of idolatry, and most of the examples of idolatry in the Bible are from that category. However, idolatry in our Western contemporary setting can look different. I think it is helpful to look at the 10 commandments to better understand this. In Exodus 20, the Israelites have been delivered from slavery in Egypt and now are entering a covenant as the special and loved people of God. But they didn't know what this looked like, so God gave his people his law. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:2-3). Interestingly, before God gives any commands to his people, he reminds them of his love, provision, and the relationship he has with them. And because of that relationship, the very first command he gives is for them to have no other gods. The second command is to have no graven images, but first and foremost God requires his people keep him as their only God. I think this is helpful for you and me as we think about idolatry. Idolatry is when you turn to anything besides God for your fulfilment, security, hope, or comfort. We look to other things as a “god substitute.” If you are like me, it is so easy to fall into this. I can trust God in most areas but then realize I am actually putting my hope in my financial stability for security, or a person for fulfillment, or a standard of living for comfort. Are there any god substitutes in your life today?

Brian White | 1 Corinthians 9:24-11:1

Send a textGod loves to be gracious and forgiving, but He is also just. He would rather rise up to show us compassion, he DELIGHTS in showing mercy, but if we will not receive that mercy and refuse to turn… Justice is on its way. A right perspective of God causes us to realize how truly amazing it is that He cares about each one of us, and cleanses us of all unrighteousness so we can approach His throne. And more than that: We get to call Him ABBA! Father. But also: Tremble in fear if you have chosen to ignore the good path He has laid out for our salvation.Chapter 10 is a perfect example of this contrast between mercy and justice.Contact and resources:Substack: https://joniscott11@substack.comInstagram Bio with Links: https://www.instagram.com/joni_scott.prayer/Facebook Page: Faith and FastingLinks to all the stuff:https://joniscott.my.canva.site/

Jacob is called to return to Bethel to commemorate what God has done for him and now to commit himself to live a radical life only for the Lord. As amazing as this is, Jacob knows that in order to do this he has to expel idols from his life and his home. Genesis 35 reminds us of the critical need to expel idols from our lives. Idols are nothing but at the same time, idols are conduits to commune with spiritual darkness. This spiritual darkness enslaves us and keeps us from living in the Light as children of God. We are called to exorcise idolatry in our lives and to get on with living in the Light as Jesus intended. Only then will we begin to experience the blessing of being saved.

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon NotesIntroductionIllustration: honeymoon betrayal → shocking picture of covenant unfaithfulness.This mirrors what Israel does in Exodus 32.While God gives instructions for the Tabernacle, Israel breaks covenant through idolatry.The passage shows:The pattern of idolatry in our heartsThe hope of intercession before a holy GodThree movements:Impatience → Idolatry → Intercession1. Impatience (v.1)Cause of Israel's sin: disappointment caused by delay.Moses delayed on the mountain (~40 days).The people grew restless and took matters into their own hands.Impatience reveals distrust in God's timing.ClarificationDifficult waiting itself is not sinful.Scripture invites honest lament and prayer (e.g., Psalms).DangerIf disappointment is not brought to God, it can become:distrustself-reliancetaking control2. IdolatryImpatience leads Israel to create the golden calf.Characteristics of Idolatry1. It is absurdCreatures say, “make us gods.”Finite humans attempt to manufacture a deity.2. It seeks a visible, controllable godA desire to see God is natural.But creating something to represent Him violates God's commands.3. It twists God's giftsGold meant for the tabernacle becomes material for an idol.Good gifts become ultimate things.4. It produces bad fruitLoss of self-controlMoral compromiseDamage to relationshipsDiagnostic QuestionWhere is your:ultimate hope?identity?security?Enjoy God's gifts—but steward them for his glory and the good of others.3. IntercessionThe covenant is broken.God's wrath is justly stirred (v.10).Moses' IntercessionMoses pleads for the people.Result:“The Lord relented…” (v.14)Judgment is restrained.The covenant continues.MeaningGod sovereignly chose intercession as the means through which mercy would come.Greater FulfillmentMoses points forward to Jesus Christ, the ultimate intercessor.Jesus:stands between God and sinnersbears God's wrathsecures forgiveness1 John 2:1–2:Christ is our advocatethe propitiation for our sins - the means by which God meets us in grace and mercy, rather than judgment and condemnationDiscussion Questions1. What delay in your life is testing your trust in God? Is it driving you toward prayer or impatience?2. What are examples of modern, even socially acceptable idols?3. Give an example of how God helped you recognize idolatrous tendencies in your own life?4. Jesus is the ultimate intercessor through his Cross.  But we can be "mini-intercessors" through our prayers for others. Discuss the relationship between God's sovereignty (he knows his good plans) and the genuine effectiveness of our prayers.Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Ancient Idolatry Made Modern

“The movie is a prayer,” says Bryan Zahnd, about Terrence Mallick's 2011 The Tree of Life, his favorite movie of all time. Bryan has seen it forty times (I have seen it three times); Bryan has taken his pastoral team from his Missouri Church to see it; he has shown it to his Congregation in Church. The film follows a family in Texas in the 1950s. Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain are the parents; they have three sons. Sean Penn plays the oldest boy when he is grown in the 1980s. It's a sermon on theodicy, creation, eschatology, all of it, all of it. And it's just very beautiful and interesting. If you've not seen it, go see it first, and then come back and talk it over with us! Pastor Byran's website. Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about another Terrence Mallick film: Bryan Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 92: A Hidden Life: The Life and Martyrdom of Bl. Franz Jägerstätter (1907-1943) Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about his books and his theology: Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 82: The Wood between the Worlds: Why Death on the Cross? A couple more episode of Almost Good Catholics on related themes: Jacob Howland on Almost Good Catholics, episode 65: Idolatry and Idle Hands: From Aaron's Golden Calf to AI Jonathan Fessenden on Almost Good Catholics, episode 58: The Book of Job: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? The video of our discussion of The Book of Job on the Missio Dei website and on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In making the Golden Calf, Israel violated one of God's clearest boundaries. Only Moses' intervention prevented their immediate destruction. The human impulses that led Israel to worship idols have not gone away; they are still very much active. The vehicle has changed but the underlying urge to get a "better deal" than God says is proper has not changed. Going to an illicit spiritual relationship may provide short term satisfaction, but the end is misery and death.

It's not a stretch to say lots of people have allowed their smartphones to become addictions, and often far too much time is spent looking at, scrolling through, texting, and otherwise being occupied with those smartphones. When was the last time you left home without your phone? Our phones have become an absolute necessity, a near-constant attachment in our lives. Anywhere you go—in line for coffee, sitting in a waiting room, stopped at a red light, walking on the street—near everyone is looking down at their phones. But can you really call that an idol? After all, these smartphones are handy, and they can be great time-savers. But at some point this helpful tool can and often does have us at its mercy. We don't control it; it controls us. And for Christ-followers we need to understand the enemy of our soul will use anything he can to cause us to pay attention to and spend time with anything other than the Lord. For Christians, idolatry is anything that causes such a strong attachment in our lives—such as a strong habit—that without realizing it, we become addicted. In the case of phones, it's not that we're addicted to it but to the attention it demands of us—the attention that we choose to give it. Our smartphones demand so much of our attention, we may allow it to become not just a useful tool, but a demanding and controlling habit of devotion, and that can start to interfere with our devotion to Jesus Christ. I read once that people do not drift toward holiness. Our sinful natures, combined with the sneaky attacks from our enemy, can easily push us away from the Lord, and without intending to, we find ourselves devoted to something or someone more than to our Lord. Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us the heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? The warning of scripture is that unless we seek the Lord regularly—daily—for help, then we are opening ourselves to idolatries of the heart and mind. When you think about it, what we pay attention to determines what we think about, and that begins to take over the focus of our lives. Something as small as a smartphone can cause us to think more and give more attention to anything other than things of God. These aren't necessarily bad things, but distractions that take up our time and thoughts. If you pay little attention to the important relationships of your life they will suffer. Being attentive to a person—listening, caring, conversing with them—is how we build strong relationships. As we spend more and more time on our phones, doesn't this interfere with our relationships and create barriers and hindrances to healthy relationships? And the same is true with our relationship with God. If we don't spend time with him and give attention to his Word, to prayer, to fellowship, that can lead to a decline in our devotion to God and to obedience to his Word. We love what we give attention to. I doubt there has ever been any one single development that has grabbed humans worldwide like the smartphone has. I mean, how many apps do you have on your phone? And what is their purpose? To seize your time and attention. To cause you to want something you don't have. To allow wrong worldviews and wrong information to fill up your mind. Who could ever have predicted the impact smartphones are having on people everywhere. I read an article that said, “If an idol is anything that takes our attention and love away from the one true God, then the mass-produced, internet-connected devices in our hands are among the most insidious idols history has known.”[1] As believers, should we just get rid of our smartphones? Is that the answer to its control over us. Well, let's see what Jesus said, and yes, he had something to say about smartphones. If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell (Matthew 5:29 – 30). Did Jesus mean to literally gouge out our eye or cut off our hand? No, but he uses very strong words here to show we should take whatever drastic action might be necessary for us to break the sins that bind us, the things that are taking our attention away from the Lord and causing us to stumble. If our phones have become a stumbling block in our lives spiritually, we need to do whatever is necessary to take down that idol. In Exodus 34:14, we read: Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. Of course, this is not jealousy the way we tend to think of it today. God simply demands exclusive love and devotion from us as his children. When we worship anything else, when anything becomes more important than God, it is an idol in our lives. This is spiritual adultery. God's jealousy is holy, different from our petty human jealousy, because he desires the best for us and knows that idols will rob us of his peace and joy and our fellowship with him. If our smartphones—or anything or anyone else—begin to take our mind off things of the Lord, take time away from reading the Bible, keep us from praying like we should, God is jealous of those things because he knows we're going in the wrong direction. I doubt many Christians have ever thought about their phones as potential idols. So, how can we recognize signs that our phones have become an idol? Well, it begins with an honest assessment of how addicted you might be to your phone. Does it continually interfere with family time? Do you spend as much time with your children as you do on your phone? If you can't find your phone, take a moment to notice how upset you are in the moment. Pay attention to how much stress your phone brings into your life. Count the number of times you pick up it for no good or immediate reason—just because you haven't looked at it in the last few minutes. My guess is if I asked most believers if their phone has become an idol, they would insist that it has not. They would tell me how much they need it for business, for important communications, for safety even. But an honest assessment—paying attention to how you use the phone, how emotionally connected you are to it, how it demands your time—might reveal much more of an addition than you realized. Taking an honest assessment requires that we really want to know about anything handicapping our spiritual growth; anything that has become obsessive or addictive. It begins with an attitude of submission to God in all things and a desire to please him. If you find yourself rebelling against the idea that you could have a phone idol or any other kind of idol in your life or if you are immediately defensive about it, that might reveal that you just don't want to deal with it. I can tell you from my own life there have been and still probably are some small areas where I just don't want to face the music. I don't want to change, for whatever reason. When your defenses go up, and you refuse to look at the control the smartphone may have in your life, this is tell-tale sign you've allowed it to become an idol. Next, pray about it; ask God to show you how he feels about the time you spend and the way you use your smartphones. If there's a problem, the Holy Spirit is faithful to convict us, and I think we all can recognize that convicting, uneasy spirit in our hearts. God never deals with us in guilt, but he certainly convicts us of things in our lives that don't please him. If we don't confess and forsake them, then it turns to guilt, shame, and miserableness! Do yourself a favor: confess your phone idolatry as a sin and tell God you want to change. Then tell somebody what you've done; make yourself accountable to someone you can trust. And keep praying about it every day. In 1 John 5:21, we read: Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. You can't be much clearer than that. It is our responsibility to keep ourselves from idols. When we don't, we're living in disobedience. That means you will need to take some intentional steps toward changing your relationship with your smartphone, if indeed it has become an idol by taking your time and attention away from God and other more important matters. Here are some suggestions about changing your habits and fighting phone idolatry. Use your phone only at certain times of the day for designated purposes. There's no question it can be an effective tool for getting information, communicating clearly, and saving time in many ways. Use it for the good it offers and then work toward having some phone-free time every day—not just a couple of minutes but hours. I promise you, the world will not stop revolving. Your company or organization will survive; those friends or family who are trying to reach you can wait a bit. Screen-free times need to be put in place and make them known to those who need to know. Let me strongly encourage you not to pick your phone up first thing in the morning. Wait until you've had time to pray and read God's Word. Make that the first thing you do, rather than looking at your phone. And this may sound weird, but I suggest you don't read your Bible from your phone—not for that morning time with Jesus. Hold a Bible in your hands; highlight what speaks to you, make notes in the margins, write in a journal. It's nice to have the Bible on your phone when a Bible is not near later in the day, but I strongly urge you to put God's Word in your hands first thing in your day. That will be hard for some people, but I really believe it will make a difference. Your day is won or lost in the morning hours; start your day off right. Let your phone sit unanswered for the first hours of your day. Let me close this discussion by reminding you that spending time with God is sweeter and better than anything you'll get from your phone. The love of God is better than any other love, and you need to continually remind yourself just how much God loves you. Spend time doing that, meditating on God's goodness to you, thanking him for all your many blessings, and casting your cares on him, because he cares for you. Make your phone your servant, not your idol. Use it for good and refuse to let it steal your joy and your peace. — [1] McCracken, B. (2025, December 11). How to Fight Your Phone Idolatry. The Gospel Coalition. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/fight-phone-idolatry/

What is the kingdom of God?; Crusades?; Studying history; Persuasion vs force; "Stoning"; "Corban"; Idolatry?; Cities of blood - Systems; Cutting hair/skin; Rituals and ceremonies; Making the word of God to none effect; Unmooring words from their meaning; Heredity; Spiritual DNA?; Extra-terrestrials?; Evil appearing as angels of light; Guidance from Holy Spirit; Altars of sacrifice?; Lev 6:2 in that which was delivered - "paqqadown" = to deposit, store, supply (in trust); biet+pi-kuf-dalet-vav-nun; Gen 31:46; Pledges to Pharaoh; Praying at the "Well of Beersheba"?; Jacob going to Egypt; Learning to be Israel; Quicksand; Man having dominion - unalienable rights; "Dress and keep it"; God's trust in men; Angels in Sodom and Gomorrah?; Avoiding repeating historical mistakes; Vanity vs Humility; Recompense; Prodigal son; Lk 15:11; Checking your spirit; False swearing; Setting priorities like God; Atonement?; Replacement and offering to world; Lev 6:8 - law (Towrah); Ex 13:9 tav-vav-resh-tav; Leaven?; "Put to death"?; Nazarite?; Mal 2:6, Mal 4:4; Law of faith; Aaron and his sons; "Burnt offering"; Altars?; Fire?; Aleph-tav untranslated?; Man's faith in God; Social safety net; Linen garment; Breeches?; Ashes?; Baldness?; Reserve fund of the kingdom of God; Daily sacrifice for the (true) needy; Wise giving - witness; Fraud; Going the way of Christ; Uncorrupted social welfare; Freewill offerings; Christ's lineage includes Parthia; Pharisees today; Biting your neighbor; Eating with unleavened bread; Walking in the spirit; Trusting others; No right to social security; Being filled with Holy Spirit; "Court"?; Crooks and crookedness; Strong congregations; "Sabbath" is about debt; half = mem-chet-tzedek-yod-tav-hey; "morning"? Biet-biet-kuf-resh - without delay, right away; "Sweet savor"?; Passover lamb to eat in one night; Sprinkling?; Separate Israelites; v28: Earthen vessel; Using up; "broken" shabar; Judgement-repentance- deliverance; Pride!; Gather faithfully; Tribalism; Doing the will of the Father; Stay humble, my friends.

In this Bible study, we explore the powerful final chapter of Isaiah and the transition into the book of Jeremiah. Isaiah 66 introduces one of the most sobering images in Scripture: “where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” This Hebrew idiom, later used by Jesus in the New Testament, points to the reality of eternal judgment and the seriousness of rejecting God. The imagery comes from the Valley of Gehenna outside Jerusalem, a place associated with continual burning and decay. Jesus referenced this same imagery in Mark 9 to warn about the eternal consequences of sin and the urgency of removing anything that keeps us from faith in Him. From there, the study moves into Jeremiah 2:13 and the powerful metaphor of “broken cisterns.” God describes Israel abandoning Him, the fountain of living water, and digging their own broken reservoirs that cannot hold water. This vivid picture illustrates humanity's tendency to seek life, fulfillment, and security in things other than God. Throughout the teaching, we examine how these ancient warnings still apply today. People continue to build modern “cisterns” in money, power, relationships, pleasure, and self-reliance, yet only Christ offers the true living water that satisfies the soul. Jesus later stands in the temple and declares, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” The invitation remains the same today: stop trusting in broken cisterns and come to the source of living water. Topics covered in this study: • Isaiah 66 and the imagery of the undying worm • Jesus' teaching on Gehenna and eternal judgment • The doctrine of hell and God's justice • Jeremiah's warning about broken cisterns • Idolatry and trusting in false sources of life • Jesus as the fountain of living water Scriptures referenced include: Isaiah 66:24 Mark 9:47–48 Jeremiah 2:13 John 7:37–38 This message is a call to examine what we are trusting in and to return to the only source of true life: Jesus Christ. Keep looking up. Our redemption draws near.

Join Stephen Streett as he delves into the themes of idolatry and sin through the lens of Ezekiel 8. This sermon, delivered during a Wednesday night service, explores the spiritual struggles faced by ancient Israel and how they mirror modern challenges. Streett emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God in our lives, confronting personal idols, and renewing our commitment to faith.

In this Bible study, we explore the powerful final chapter of Isaiah and the transition into the book of Jeremiah. Isaiah 66 introduces one of the most sobering images in Scripture: "where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched." This Hebrew idiom, later used by Jesus in the New Testament, points to the reality of eternal judgment and the seriousness of rejecting God. The imagery comes from the Valley of Gehenna outside Jerusalem, a place associated with continual burning and decay. Jesus referenced this same imagery in Mark 9 to warn about the eternal consequences of sin and the urgency of removing anything that keeps us from faith in Him. From there, the study moves into Jeremiah 2:13 and the powerful metaphor of "broken cisterns." God describes Israel abandoning Him, the fountain of living water, and digging their own broken reservoirs that cannot hold water. This vivid picture illustrates humanity's tendency to seek life, fulfillment, and security in things other than God. Throughout the teaching, we examine how these ancient warnings still apply today. People continue to build modern "cisterns" in money, power, relationships, pleasure, and self-reliance, yet only Christ offers the true living water that satisfies the soul. Jesus later stands in the temple and declares, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink." The invitation remains the same today: stop trusting in broken cisterns and come to the source of living water. Topics covered in this study: • Isaiah 66 and the imagery of the undying worm • Jesus' teaching on Gehenna and eternal judgment • The doctrine of hell and God's justice • Jeremiah's warning about broken cisterns • Idolatry an

Why_the_Torah_Calls_Anger_Idolatry__And_How_to_Break

Doug Helmer | 1 Corinthians 9

Ahaz is in a pickle: Judah is being attacked on literally every side God brings an encouraging prophecy to Ahaz and tells him to ask for a sign, but Ahaz refuses Ahaz begs the king of Assyria for help - in a similar fashion as one would pray to God Ahaz completely shutters the temple to God and replaces it with idols Why idolatry breeds selfishness, which, in turn breeds violence Hey! Look at this other P40 content! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869 Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more: www.lifeaudio.com Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This morning, we kick-off a new series in the prophetic book of Micah. Written to call God's people back to a right relationship with him, Micah's  prophecies both warn about the consequences of sin, and put forward the hope of restoration by grace. Today, in Micah 1, we'll see how the persistent sin of idolatry – which caused Israel to incur the judgment of exile – motivates us today to turn from our idols through faith in Jesus as the only cure for our sin and idolatry. Audio | Notes | Micah 1

"Idolatry" By Matthew Schlesinger

Laura sits down with Christian Bevere for an honest conversation about dating — the world's way, the church's way, and God's way. Together, they talk about waiting for God's timing, learning who you are before stepping into a relationship, and becoming whole on your own first. In this episode, we unpack the subtle ways we can unknowingly make our future husbands an idol during singleness — and the freedom that comes from surrendering that desire back to the Lord. For some, this is a reminder that it's okay to come up for air and not sit in grief over what hasn't happened yet. For others, it's encouragement to boldly pray for what you desire, cast vision for your future, and ask yourself: If I keep living the way I am now, would this be the kind of woman the man I'm praying for is looking for? This conversation is a reminder of how gracious and kind the Lord is toward you. He redeems. He restores. He cares deeply about your desires. God invites you to pray boldly, to trust His timing, and to place your future fully in His hands. To join our monthly partnership team & help make episodes like this possible, go to CallHerHoly.com/donate. We love you holy babes,  Laura & Nico Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ozempic is everywhere, and the conversation around it reveals far more than a debate about weight loss. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar step into the cultural moment surrounding GLP-1 medications, clarifying their medical purpose while asking more profound questions about motive, discipline, and identity. The guys acknowledge that these drugs have saved lives, especially for those with type two diabetes, but they focus on the growing trend of using them as shortcuts to self-control and image management. What emerges is a challenge to examine why so many are willing to chemically alter their bodies in pursuit of a certain look, and what that pursuit reveals about the desires shaping the heart.The discussion widens to the obsession with perfection and comfort that shapes modern life. The guys describe how we live in a filtered and photoshopped world where appearance becomes currency and praise becomes addictive. Ozempic, they argue, functions as a cultural artifact that exposes a lack of discipline and an unwillingness to embrace discomfort. This shortcut mindset shows up not only in health but also in faith, work, and ministry, where people want outcomes without formation. Discipline, once seen as virtuous, is now treated as oppressive, yet Scripture calls believers to discipline themselves for godliness rather than convenience.Contentment becomes a central theme as the guys contrast cultural messaging with a biblical worldview. Advertisers thrive by sowing dissatisfaction, but Scripture calls believers to gratitude, stewardship, and eternal perspective. Identity is often tied to the scale or the mirror, yet value is rooted in belonging to Christ. Oscar shares practical wisdom about food as fuel rather than a fixation, modeling balance rather than restriction or obsession. Ray emphasizes enjoying God's gifts without letting them rule us, reminding listeners that health is complex and cannot be reduced to appearance alone.The conversation closes with a call to examine judgment, pride, and purpose. The body is not a trophy to display but a temple to steward, and viewing it rightly frees believers from comparison and condemnation. Psalm 139 affirms God's intentional design, pushing back against cultural pressure to reshape what God has formed. True contentment comes from denying self, following Christ, and living for eternal glory rather than temporary praise. There are no shortcuts to sanctification, only grace, discipline, and a life oriented toward making Christ known rather than making ourselves admired. Send a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro