Today's post is by Guest Writer Joanne Beckley
We have all read our Old and New Testament condemnation of idolatry in all its forms. But
right now I would ask you to read of man’s worship of idols in today’s time throughout the
world. Idolatry is not dead! It is next door and yes, in our politics, often disguised or blatant in
our face. Is America, her people of all races and creeds, really “One Nation Under (one) God”?
1Sa 15:23 "For rebellion is as the sin of divination, And insubordination is as iniquity and
idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from
[being] king."
The following paragraphs are internet AI overviews.
Idolatry, in a religious context, refers to the act of worshiping or giving undue reverence to
an object, person, or idea as a god or something divine, rather than to the true God or divine
being. Examples include the worship of celestial bodies like the sun and moon, statues, or even
inanimate objects, physical items to represent who or what they worship. In modern times,
idolatry can also manifest as excessive focus on material possessions, fame, or pleasure, where
these things become the primary source of value and happiness.
Polytheism is the belief in many gods and is characteristic of most religions except for
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which are monotheistic. In polytheistic religions, gods can
have various roles and attributes, and sometimes a supreme creator or a dominant god exists,
such as Zeus in Greek religion. Polytheism can coexist with other beliefs and often includes
belief in demonic and ghostly forces, and gods may represent natural forces, social functions,
or abstract concepts.
Southwestern tribal religions are generally characterized by animism (the attribution of a
soul to plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena) and shamanism (a person regarded
as having access to, and influence in, the world of good and evil spirits). Many tribes believe in
spirits inhabiting natural elements and relying on shamans as intermediaries between the human
and spiritual realms. Ceremonies played a vital role, with some tribes like the Pueblo
performing them to ensure the continuation of the world and appeal to powerful being. Kachina
figures represent the spiritual beings who help the Pueblo cultures survive.
Satanism, as a religion, encompasses a range of beliefs and practices, primarily revolving
around the figure of Satan, a figure linked to rebellion and enlightenment emphasizing
self-indulgence, individual freedom, and a rejection of traditional religious morality. It's important to note that Satanism isn't a monolithic religion, and different groups hold diverse
views on Satan's nature and the purpose of their faith.
Hinduism is a multifaceted religion with origins in the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a
diverse array of philosophies, practices, and beliefs. It is often described as a "way of life"
rather than a rigid set of doctrines, encompassing a vast range of traditions and rituals that
revolve around specific idols. Key concepts include Brahman, the ultimate reality or universal
soul; karma, the principle of cause and effect; and samsara, the cycle of reincarnation. Hindus
also strive for moksha, liberation from this cycle, often through practices like yoga and
meditation. Hindus believe in the doctrines of samsara (the continuous cycle of life, death, and
reincarnation) and karma (the universal law of cause and effect). One of the key thoughts of
Hinduism is “atman,” or the belief in soul. This philosophy holds that living creatures have a
soul, and they're all part of the supreme soul.
Polynesian religions were diverse and involved beliefs in pantheons of gods represented in
various forms, local and family spirits, and the concept of "mana," a sacred supernatural
power. Christianity, particularly Protestantism and Catholicism, was adopted by many
Polynesian cultures following missionary efforts, often blending with pre-existing traditions.
Taoism holds that humans and animals should live in balance with the Tao, or the universe.
Taoists believe in spiritual immortality, where the spirit of the body joins the universe after
death. For example, trees are to be worshiped as equal as god within man.
African traditional religions are diverse belief systems with roots in indigenous African
cultures, characterized by animism, ancestor worship, and the belief in both a supreme creator
and lesser deities. These religions often emphasize the interconnectedness of the natural and
spiritual realms, with practitioners seeking to maintain harmony with the spirit world through
rituals, offerings, and spirits in nature.
There is evidence of idolatry within the Catholic faith, whether seen in the need to replace the
toe of Saint Peter’s statue, or a picture on the wall.
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Each of these religions are practiced here in America and are evidence of man’s need for
someone to be viewed higher than self. Each one seeks for something better than what is
experienced here on earth. Sadly, unknowingly, many Americans have been swallowing parts
of others’ religion! And yes, be aware of what we hear in the news on TV for religion may
explain why the increase in evil.
How thankful you and I can be for our faith in Almighty Eternal God. He has provided direct
communication with us and we have direct access to Him through prayer. He is our creator and
rules with righteous justice, requiring responsibilities toward Him in our worship to Him. He
has provided a way of peace while we live in this world. How sad it is that the world does not
know Him despite the fact that all mankind now has access to the Bible.
Ro 16:25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of
Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long
ages past, 26 but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the
commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, [leading] to
obedience of faith; 27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.
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