What modern practices might parallel the "high places" mentioned in 2 Kings 16:4? Setting the Scene “Instead, they sacrificed and burned incense on the high places, on the hills, and under every green tree.” (2 Kings 16:4) What Were the High Places? - Elevated sites, often with altars, idols, or sacred poles (Deuteronomy 12:2). - Locations for syncretistic worship—mixing the worship of the LORD with pagan practices (1 Kings 14:23; Hosea 4:13). - Condemned because they replaced the one altar God appointed in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 12:5-14). Why God Rejected Them - Violated the first commandment (Exodus 20:3). - Drew hearts away from exclusive devotion (1 Kings 11:4-8). - Led to moral corruption and injustice (Micah 1:5; Isaiah 57:5-7). Modern Parallels to High Places - Entertainment or media that exalts values contrary to Scripture yet dominates time and affection. - Materialism: malls, online shopping, or possessions that become primary sources of identity and security (Matthew 6:24). - Sports or hobbies that consistently displace corporate worship and personal devotion (Hebrews 10:25). - Cultural ideologies—secular humanism, relativism, expressive individualism—that shape belief and behavior more than God’s Word (Colossians 2:8). - Digital “altars”: social media platforms where affirmation, image-crafting, and influence are pursued above Christ’s glory (Galatians 1:10). - Occult or New Age practices—tarot, crystals, astrology—that promise guidance apart from the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 8:19-20). Guarding Our Hearts Today - Examine objects of highest affection and trust (Proverbs 4:23). - Consistently submit every practice to Scripture’s authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). - Prioritize gathered worship and Word-centered fellowship (Acts 2:42-47). - Replace cultural idols with deliberate acts of praise, obedience, and generosity (Romans 12:1-2). Invitation to Holiness “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Tear down any modern “high place” by exalting Christ alone in every sphere of life, confident that obedience brings freedom and joy (John 8:31-32). |
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