What does "they have mouths, but cannot speak" teach about false gods? The Verse in Focus Psalm 115:5: “They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see.” The Picture Painted by the Psalmist • Idols are the work of human hands (Psalm 115:4). • They mimic living features—mouths, eyes, ears, noses—yet remain lifeless (Psalm 115:5-7). • Makers and worshipers grow like their idols—spiritually dull and powerless (Psalm 115:8). Key Lessons about False Gods • Powerless Objects – A mouth suggests the ability to command, comfort, or warn; idols do none of it (Isaiah 46:5-7). • No Revelation – Speechless gods cannot unveil truth, morals, or prophecy (Jeremiah 10:5). • Relationship Impossible – Conversation is needed for fellowship; idols never respond (Habakkuk 2:18-19). • Dependent, Not Sovereign – They must be carried, cleaned, and guarded by their worshipers (Isaiah 44:14-17; 1 Kings 18:26). • Deceptive Appearance – The carved mouth promises guidance, yet silence betrays the lie. Idolatry swaps the living Word (John 1:1) for mute stone. Contrast with the Living God • Speaks Creation into Being: “God said, ‘Let there be light’” (Genesis 1:3). • Continues to Speak through Scripture: “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Speaks Personally through His Son: “He has spoken to us by His Son” (Hebrews 1:2). • Hears and Answers Prayer: “Call to Me and I will answer you” (Jeremiah 33:3). Why This Matters Today • Modern idols—wealth, status, technology—promise guidance yet remain silent. • Listening to God’s voice in Scripture shields hearts from deception. • A mute idol cannot save; the speaking God both warns and redeems (Romans 10:13-17). Living Response • Delight daily in the God who still speaks. • Measure every competing voice against His unchanging Word. • Transfer trust from powerless idols to the sovereign, vocal, and living Lord. |