Idolatry

Idolatry

In 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 we read, “Whose minds the god of this world has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” The devil is the god of this world, and he is also called the tempter. He tempted Jesus to perform signs and wonders, to worship him, and to receive all the glory of the world; but Jesus answered: “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” Matt. 4:10.

We can say that at this point Satan tried to make Jesus into the Antichrist. When the Antichrist comes, he will come with signs and wonders. 2 Thess. 2:9. He exalts himself, and he will win the whole world. Rev. 13:7. All these things are great in the eyes of man, and Jesus says, “For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” To covet is the same as to commit idolatry. The religious world is very much occupied with signs and wonders. That is how they gather large crowds. It is something great, and people flock to it. They are idolaters and are not interested in the truth and in sanctification. 2 Thess. 2:10-14. The gospel of the glory of Jesus Christ does not shine on them. The god of this world has blinded their minds.

There have been great revivals in times past, and many people have been converted to God. They forsook the world and were happy. They wrote songs about forsaking the world and only having Jesus, and about the heavenly glory. Nevertheless, the god of this world did not let them go that easily. He showed them the possibilities in the world and its advantages, and so their minds began to be darkened. Salvation through the gospel no longer shone on them. Being a Christian began to be a burden for them. They began to love the present world, and the songs ceased. 2 Tim. 4:10. “But she [he] who lives in pleasure is dead while she [he] lives.” 1 Tim. 5:6. He is an idolater. “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15-17.

Paul writes that covetousness is idolatry. He puts it in the same category as fornication, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire; and because of these things the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience. Col. 3:5-6. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man.” In this connection we have the exhortation, “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” 1 Cor. 10:13-14. It is useless trying to come to victory and a happy life if one is an idolater. But you will have victory and joy and fellowship with the Father and the Son and all the saints if you live the life that is described in 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. Read also 2 Corinthians 4:17-18.