Just as adultery is not limited to the physical act of extramarital intimacy (Matthew 5:27-28), idolatry also, otherwise referred to as spiritual adultery (Hosea), is not limited to the physical act of bowing and worshiping statues (Matthew 6:24).
It is interesting to note the only time the devil directly asked Jesus to bow to him and worship him. The bible says, “…, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendour. ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me’.” (Matthew 4:8, 9)
Please note that the devil did not show Jesus the kingdom of God. He showed him the kingdoms (note the plural) of the world and their splendour. Interestingly, he showed him…, but he did not tell him the truth that the kingdoms of the world and their splendour will pass away…. Yes, the devil will never tell you the truth (he cannot, in fact) that you need to know in order to make the right choice or decision…
As I was typing the foregoing the thought came to mind that 95% of prophecies in most popular churches nowadays are all about personal power, influence, and money…. This is an indication that most people would bow to and worship anyone who would deliver personal power, influence, and money to them, but Jesus did not. Incidentally, I recall a book I once had on my shelves titled, “If money is not god, why does the church worship it?”. Sadly, for most of us the church’s (leaders and members) attitude to money is not idolatry.
Let me quickly say that from the kingdom of God’s perspective, personal power, influence, and money are means to an end which is serving others for God’s sake. They are meant to be like the towel and basin of water the Lord Jesus used to wash his disciples feet, but unfortunately not so for most people. Do you know that anyone one who pursues (seeks) them will end up serving them and not God? We must never forget that personal power, influence and money can never substitute for God. We always need God more.
The devil invited Jesus to idolatry, which consists in valuing creation (gifts) more than the creator (Giver), but Jesus rejected it: He said, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.” (4:10)
May we be delivered from idolatry in Jesus Christ name!
