What idols mentioned in 1 Kings 11:33 are present in today's society? Setting the Scene “Because they have forsaken Me and have worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of Moab, and Molech the god of the Ammonites, and they have not walked in My ways…” (1 Kings 11:33). The same bent toward idolatry that drew Solomon’s kingdom away from the LORD still pulls at hearts today, though the statues have changed shape. The Ancient Idols Named • Ashtoreth – Canaanite goddess of fertility, sexuality, and sensual pleasure • Chemosh – Moabite god of conquest and domination, celebrated through violent triumph • Molech – Ammonite god who demanded child sacrifice, life offered on blazing altars Ashtoreth and Today’s Culture of Pleasure Attributes then: sensuality, erotic worship, ritual prostitution Modern echoes: • Pornography and the multibillion–dollar sex industry • Entertainment that normalizes adultery and casual hookups • Advertising that sells by stoking lust and body–obsession Relevant Scriptures: • Ephesians 5:3 – “But among you, as is proper for saints, there must not even be a hint of sexual immorality…” • Colossians 3:5 – “Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust…” Chemosh and Today’s Thirst for Power Attributes then: military might, ruthless victory, national pride Modern echoes: • Careerism that tramples people for promotions or profits • Political or ideological zeal that justifies unethical tactics • Violent entertainment that glorifies domination Relevant Scriptures: • Matthew 20:26 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” • James 3:16 – “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.” Molech and Today’s Disregard for Life Attributes then: child sacrifice, destruction of the most vulnerable Modern echoes: • Abortion framed as personal convenience • Neglect or abuse of children through trafficking, exploitation, or parental absence • Policies or lifestyles that value profit over protecting life Relevant Scriptures: • Psalm 127:3 – “Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward.” • Proverbs 24:11 – “Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward the slaughter.” Guarding Our Hearts Today • 1 John 5:21 – “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” • 1 Corinthians 10:14 – “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” Practical steps: – Daily Scripture intake to calibrate desire toward God’s glory – Accountability relationships that expose hidden compromise – Stewardship of media, money, and time so nothing rivals Christ – Active compassion for the vulnerable, turning conviction into protective action |
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