Topical Bible: Dedication by Idolaters in Setting up Idols

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In the biblical narrative, the act of dedicating idols is a recurring theme that highlights the spiritual apostasy and rebellion against the one true God. The dedication of idols is often depicted as a direct violation of the first two commandments given by God, which prohibit the worship of other gods and the creation of graven images (Exodus 20:3-4). This practice is seen as a significant transgression that leads to divine judgment and serves as a cautionary tale for the people of God.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous accounts of idol worship and the dedication of idols by various nations and, at times, by the Israelites themselves. One prominent example is found in the account of the golden calf in Exodus 32. While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Law, the Israelites, under Aaron's leadership, fashioned a golden calf and dedicated it as their god, proclaiming, "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!" (Exodus 32:4). This act of idolatry provoked the Lord's anger and resulted in severe consequences for the people.

Another significant instance is the dedication of the idol by King Jeroboam in 1 Kings 12:28-30. Jeroboam, fearing the loss of his kingdom, set up golden calves in Bethel and Dan, declaring, "Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt" (1 Kings 12:28). This act led Israel into sin and established a pattern of idolatry that persisted throughout the northern kingdom's history.

Prophetic Condemnation

The prophets of Israel consistently condemned the dedication of idols and the idolatrous practices of the people. Isaiah, for instance, mocked the futility of idol worship, describing how craftsmen fashion idols from wood and metal, yet these idols are powerless and lifeless (Isaiah 44:9-20). Jeremiah also denounced the idolatry of Judah, warning of the impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness (Jeremiah 10:1-16).

Ezekiel vividly portrayed the idolatry of Israel as spiritual adultery, emphasizing the nation's unfaithfulness to God (Ezekiel 16:15-19). The prophets called the people to repentance, urging them to turn away from idols and return to the worship of the Lord.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the issue of idolatry is addressed within the context of the early church's mission to the Gentiles. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, warns believers against participating in idolatrous practices. In 1 Corinthians 10:14, he exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry" . Paul emphasizes that idolatry is incompatible with the worship of the true God and that believers are to separate themselves from such practices.

The Book of Acts records the Apostle Paul's encounter with idolatry in Athens, where he observed the city's numerous idols and addressed the people at the Areopagus. He proclaimed the truth of the one true God, contrasting Him with the idols made by human hands (Acts 17:22-31).

Theological Implications

The dedication of idols by idolaters serves as a stark reminder of humanity's propensity to turn away from God and seek security and meaning in created things. It underscores the biblical teaching that idolatry is not merely the worship of physical objects but represents a deeper spiritual rebellion against God. The Bible consistently calls God's people to exclusive devotion to Him, warning of the spiritual dangers and consequences of idolatry.

Throughout Scripture, the dedication of idols is portrayed as a grave sin that leads to spiritual blindness and separation from God. It serves as a powerful illustration of the need for repentance and the call to worship the Lord in spirit and truth.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Daniel 3:2,3
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Covenanting According to the Purposes of God.
... on the sovereignty of God exercised in setting apart a ... his people Israel, he chose
them from among idolaters. ... of Christ and his benefits, and dedication to God ...
/.../the ordinance of covenanting/chapter viii covenanting according to.htm

Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels.
... man's praise, [856]339; Christ's ascending, the dedication of the ... sight of God,
[1306]380 sq.; "Lift up the heart ... Idols, not to be broken down, unless by proper ...
/.../sermons on selected lessons of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... and Tarshish"The palace at Jerusalem, the temple and its dedication: the priesthood
and ... the story of Elijah"The wars between Israel and Damascus up to the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm