Consulting idols refers to the practice of seeking guidance, wisdom, or revelation from physical objects or images that are believed to embody or represent deities other than the God of Israel. This practice is consistently condemned throughout the Bible as idolatry, a grievous sin that leads individuals and nations away from the worship of the one true God.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Israelites are repeatedly warned against the practice of consulting idols. The first commandment explicitly states, "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). The second commandment further prohibits the making of carved images or idols for worship (Exodus 20:4-5). Despite these clear instructions, the history of Israel is marked by periods of idol worship, often leading to divine judgment.

The prophet Isaiah mocks the futility of idol worship, highlighting the absurdity of creating gods from wood and stone: "They lift it to their shoulders and carry it; they set it in its place, and there it stands. It does not move from its place. Though one cries out to it, it cannot answer; it cannot save him from his troubles" (Isaiah 46:7). This passage underscores the impotence of idols compared to the living God.

The practice of consulting idols is often associated with the surrounding pagan nations, whose influence led Israel astray. The Canaanites, for example, worshiped Baal and Asherah, and their religious practices included consulting these idols for guidance and fertility. The Israelites' adoption of such practices is seen as a direct violation of their covenant with God.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from physical idols to the broader concept of idolatry, which includes anything that takes the place of God in one's heart. The Apostle Paul addresses this in his letters, warning believers against idolatry in all its forms. In 1 Corinthians 10:14, Paul exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry" . This admonition reflects the understanding that idolatry is not limited to physical idols but includes any form of devotion that detracts from the worship of God.

Paul also highlights the spiritual implications of idol worship, stating, "What do I imply then? That food sacrificed to an idol is anything, or that an idol is anything? No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God. And I do not want you to be participants with demons" (1 Corinthians 10:19-20). This passage reveals the demonic influence behind idol worship, further emphasizing the spiritual danger it poses.

Theological Implications

From a theological standpoint, consulting idols is a direct affront to the sovereignty and exclusivity of God. It represents a rejection of God's authority and a breach of the covenant relationship established with His people. Idolatry is often linked with other sins, such as immorality and injustice, as it distorts the worshiper's understanding of God and His righteous standards.

The Bible consistently calls for repentance and a return to the worship of the true God. The prophets, such as Jeremiah and Ezekiel, call the people to abandon their idols and return to the Lord with sincere hearts. Ezekiel 14:6 declares, "Therefore tell the house of Israel that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Repent and turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations’" .

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, the admonition against consulting idols serves as a reminder to examine one's heart and priorities. Idolatry can manifest in various forms, such as materialism, power, or even relationships that take precedence over one's devotion to God. The call to "flee from idolatry" remains relevant, urging Christians to maintain their focus on Christ and to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit rather than any form of idolatrous practice.