What modern "idols" should we remove to align with Josiah's actions in 2 Kings? Josiah’s Zeal for Pure Worship “Before him there was no king like him, who turned to the LORD with all his heart… nor did any like him arise after him.” (2 Kings 23:25) Josiah smashed altars, burned idols, desecrated pagan sites, and removed every object that competed with the worship of the one true God (2 Kings 23:4-20). His example presses us to examine the things that quietly demand our devotion today. Recognizing Today’s Hidden Shrines Anything that steals love, trust, time, or obedience from Christ is an idol (Exodus 20:3-4; 1 John 5:21; Colossians 3:5). Common twenty-first-century replicas include: • Materialism — the endless upgrade cycle, status symbols, “retail therapy” (Matthew 6:19-21). • Sexual Pleasure — pornography, hookup culture, erotic entertainment (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). • Technological Fixation — screens first, Scripture last; scrolling replacing prayer (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Self and Image — “curated” social media personas, fitness obsessions, self-care elevated above self-denial (Luke 9:23). • Entertainment Overload — streaming binges, sports fanaticism, gaming immersion (Philippians 4:8). • Career and Achievement — identity tied to résumé, children’s schedules hijacked by college prep (Mark 8:36). • Political Identity — party loyalty eclipsing kingdom allegiance (Philippians 3:20). • Relationships — dating, family, or friends occupying the throne meant for Christ alone (Luke 14:26-27). • Comfort and Safety — risk-free living that avoids sacrificial obedience (Hebrews 13:13-14). • Religious Formalism — church activity without heart devotion, tradition treasured over truth (Isaiah 29:13). Practical Steps to Smash Modern Idols • Expose the counterfeit: ask, “Does this compete with my first love?” (Revelation 2:4). • Confess specifically: name the idol and agree with God about its sinfulness (Proverbs 28:13). • Remove access points: unsubscribe, delete apps, cancel memberships, clear calendars (Matthew 5:29-30). • Redirect affection: replace scrolling with Scripture, streaming with serving, buying with giving (Psalm 119:37). • Re-order rhythms: Sabbath rest, family worship, corporate gathering, daily prayer (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Surround yourself with accountability: godly friends who lovingly confront drift (Hebrews 3:13). • Celebrate the greater treasure: “Whatever was gain to me I count as loss because of Christ.” (Philippians 3:7-8) Living Josiah’s Legacy Today Josiah did not merely tidy the temple; he dethroned every rival. When we detect and destroy the subtler idols of our age, we echo his resolve and uphold the command: “Little children, keep yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:21). |
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