Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Four Great Quotes on Idolatry

Here is a good reminder on idolatry and I know I definitely need this brought to mind for myself. It comes from Tullian Tchividjian, pastor of New City Church and also, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale FL.

Four Great Quotes On Idolatry
Posted August 21st, 2009 by Tullian Tchividjian

“It is the normal state of the human heart to try to build its identity around something besides God.” Soren Kierkegaard

“Spiritual pride is the illusion that you are competant to run your own life, achieve your own sense of self worth, and find a purpose big enough to give you meaning in life without God.” Tim Keller

“Idolatry is worshipping anything that ought to be used, or using anything that is meant to be worshipped.” St. Augustine

“An idol is anything we trust in for deliverance in the place of Jesus and his grace.” Scotty Smith

By the way, idolatry is not just a problem for non-Christians; it’s a problem for Christians too (read 1 John 5:21). We Christians are also guilty of trusting in something–or someone–smaller than God to give our lives meaning and significance. We look to our achievements, our reputation, our relationships, our strengths, our place in society, our
stuff, our smarts, our good looks, and on and on it goes.

So, let’s not make the mistake of thinking the above quotes don’t apply to Christians. They do. What are your idols? What are you trusting in other than Jesus to gain acceptance and approval–to give your life meaning and to make life worth living?

1 comment:

  1. This is a hard concept for our "positive attitude","don't say can't" generation. It's really not up to us is it?
    As I have been struggling with my health I am in prayer even more than before and I have come more to terms with the truth that the doctors will do what they think is right , but God determines the outcome. Sometimes our idols are the dependance we have on "experts".
    God's eternal view is a great comfort in uncertain times. Thanks for the blog, "Willie"

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