Sins of Idolatry, Social Injustice, and Religious Ritualism; the Prophets View
Bible 105-B27 LUO: Old Testament Survey
201320 Spring 2013
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Liberty University
March 07, 2013

Sins of Idolatry, Social Injustice, and Religious Ritualism; the Prophets View Several of the prophets had much to say in regards to idolatry, social injustice, and religious ritualism throughout the Old Testament. Some of these that will be used in this essay are Isaiah, Hosea, Micah, Jonah, and Ezekiel. Their verses will better define the meanings God has on each of these subjects. Let us begin by asking the question; what is idolatry? Merriam-Webster online defines it as: 1the worship of a physical object as a god, or 2immoderate attachment or devotion to something. The first definition is what most individuals think of in regards to idolatry. Stone, wood, brass, and golden statues comes to mind. However, it is the second definition that is more appropriate for a Christian to understand. It is the word “something” that is the key to the definition of idolatry. Anything you put before God is idolatry and is sin. The first two Commandments state: “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make yourself an image in the form of anything… You shall not bow down to them or worship them (Exodus 20:3-5 NIV). The idols of today are too numerous to count. Many people today place more emphasis on sports, possessions, money, television, and electronics, than taking care of their own souls. Jonah warns us of what will come to those who worship idols. He says, “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them (Jonah 2:8 NIV). Society today do not understand that they will be more content and have far more riches is they place themselves in the hands of God. Isaiah tells us what will become of the lost and saved. He