Those who make them become like them, as do all who trust in them. Those who make them become like themThis phrase refers to the makers of idols, highlighting the spiritual and moral consequences of idolatry. In biblical times, idol-making was a common practice among pagan nations surrounding Israel. The craftsmen who created these idols often imbued them with attributes of the gods they represented, yet these idols were lifeless and powerless. The Bible frequently warns against idolatry, emphasizing that those who create and worship idols become spiritually dead and morally blind, just like the idols themselves. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 44:9-20, where the futility of idol-making is mocked. The spiritual principle here is that people become like what they worship, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible. as do all who trust in them Persons / Places / Events 1. PsalmistThe author of Psalm 135, traditionally attributed to King David or another Israelite worship leader, who composed this psalm as a hymn of praise and a call to worship the one true God. 2. Idol Makers Refers to those who craft idols, which are man-made objects of worship, often representing false gods in ancient cultures. 3. Worshipers of Idols Individuals or groups who place their trust in idols, believing these objects have power or divine attributes. 4. Israel The nation chosen by God, often warned against idolatry and called to worship Yahweh alone. 5. Temple Worship The context of worship in the temple, where the psalm would have been sung, emphasizing the contrast between the living God and lifeless idols. Teaching Points The Futility of IdolatryIdols are lifeless and powerless, and those who create and trust in them become spiritually dead and ineffective, just like the idols themselves. Spiritual Transformation We become like what we worship. Worshiping the living God transforms us into His likeness, while idol worship degrades and dehumanizes us. Exclusive Devotion God demands our exclusive worship and trust. Anything that takes His place in our hearts is an idol, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or ambitions. Guarding Against Modern Idolatry In today's context, idolatry can take many forms beyond physical idols. We must examine our lives for anything that competes with God for our devotion and trust. The Call to Worship the True God The psalm calls us to worship the living God, who is active and powerful, unlike the lifeless idols. Our worship should reflect His greatness and our dependence on Him. Bible Study Questions 1. What are some modern-day "idols" that people might place their trust in, and how can we guard against them in our own lives?2. How does the concept of becoming like what we worship challenge us to evaluate our priorities and affections? 3. In what ways does the futility of idol worship, as described in Psalm 135:18, contrast with the life-giving worship of the true God? 4. How can we apply the warnings against idolatry found in both the Old and New Testaments to our daily walk with Christ? 5. Reflect on a time when you placed your trust in something other than God. What were the consequences, and how did you return to trusting in Him alone? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 20:3-5The Ten Commandments warn against idolatry, emphasizing that God is a jealous God who desires exclusive worship. Isaiah 44:9-20 This passage mocks the futility of idol-making and idol worship, highlighting the absurdity of worshiping something crafted by human hands. Romans 1:21-23 Paul discusses how humanity exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and creatures, leading to spiritual and moral decay. 1 Corinthians 10:14 Paul advises believers to flee from idolatry, recognizing its danger and the need for exclusive devotion to God.
People Aaron, Amorites, Jacob, Levi, Og, Pharaoh, Psalmist, SihonPlaces JerusalemTopics Confideth, Hope, Makers, Puts, Trusteth, Trusting, Trusts, Yea, YesDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 135:15-18Library What Pleases God. "Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places."--Psalm 135:6. "Was Gott gefaellt, mein frommes Kind." [74]Gerhardt. transl., Sarah Findlater, 1858 What God decrees, child of His love, Take patiently, though it may prove The storm that wrecks thy treasure here, Be comforted! thou needst not fear What pleases God. The wisest will is God's own will; Rest on this anchor, and be still; For peace around thy path shall flow, When only wishing here … Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther From Kadesh to the Death of Moses. Excursus on the Present Teaching of the Latin and Greek Churches on the Subject. Notes on the First Century: Christ's Kingly Office Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of Poitiers. Psalms Links Psalm 135:18 NIVPsalm 135:18 NLT Psalm 135:18 ESV Psalm 135:18 NASB Psalm 135:18 KJV Psalm 135:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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