In what ways can we avoid modern idolatry as seen in Ezekiel 20:28? Understanding the Warning in Ezekiel 20:28 “ ‘When I brought them into the land that I had sworn to give them and they saw all the high hills and leafy trees, there they offered their sacrifices and provoked Me with their offerings. They presented their fragrant incense and poured out their drink offerings.’” What Went Wrong Then • God’s people enjoyed His blessings but turned those blessings into occasions for idolatry. • They copied the surrounding culture’s worship on “high hills and leafy trees,” trusting visible rituals instead of the living God (cf. Deuteronomy 12:2). • Their offerings, incense, and drink offerings—gifts meant for the Lord—became acts of rebellion. The Heart Issue Behind Idolatry • Idolatry replaces God’s rightful place (Exodus 20:3–5). • It begins with desire: “Each one is tempted… by his own evil desire” (James 1:14). • It always provokes God’s jealousy because He loves us enough to require exclusive devotion. Recognizing Our Modern High Hills and Leafy Trees • Possessions and wealth (Matthew 6:24; 1 Timothy 6:10). • Success, status, résumé, followers. • Entertainment, leisure, sports, hobbies. • Romantic relationships or family elevated above God. • Self—image, autonomy, personal “truth.” • Ideologies or politics that become ultimate. • Religious activity itself when it replaces genuine obedience (Isaiah 1:13). Practical Ways to Avoid Modern Idolatry • Regular heart checks: ask, “What absorbs my thoughts, energy, resources?” (Proverbs 4:23). • Daily Scripture intake—letting God speak first and loudest (Psalm 119:11). • Intentional gratitude: view every blessing as a stewardship, not a shrine (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Generous giving: loosens money’s grip and redirects glory to God (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Sabbath rhythms: step back from work, screens, consumerism to delight in the Lord (Exodus 20:8–11). • Accountability: invite trusted believers to spot blind spots (Hebrews 3:13). • Worship that centers on God’s character, not merely on emotional experience (John 4:23–24). • Replacing idols with affection for Christ: “Set your minds on things above… Put to death therefore… greed, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:1–5). Walking in Exclusive Devotion • Remember the cost of redemption—Christ’s sacrifice displays God’s jealous love (1 Peter 1:18–19). • Keep the future hope before you: earthly idols perish, but “the one who does the will of God remains forever” (1 John 2:17). • Finish each day by reaffirming, “Little children, keep yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:21). |
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