Top Resources on Idolatry

Use the resources below to understand some of the common idols in modern-day America.

1. How to know you have an idol (Article)
Idols are more than trinkets and doo-dads, and they certainly didn’t disappear after the Old Testament. They still exist today, and they wield much more power than lifeless, inanimate trinkets placed on altars in temples.

2. Five insights into idolatry (Article)
When it comes to idolatry, we humans are endlessly creative. Give us a chance, and we’ll replace God with any and every object, person, idea, or dream.

3. How to know when you’re worshipping your work (Article)
Having a strong work ethic is important, but an identity based on our careers cannot replace our heavenly identity in Christ.

4. How to fight back against the idol of productivity (Article)
Contrary to what culture might tell you, you are not what you produce, and your value is not based on your ability to deliver.

5. Three questions to detect sports idolatry (Article)
Is your commitment to sports standing in for delight in God? Use these three questions to help determine whether you’re corrupting this particular gift.

6.   Are you making your family an idol? (Podcast)
Do we love God more than we love our kids? Do the decisions we make about lifestyle choices reveal if God is our first priority or not? Even well-intentioned parents fall into this ditch.

7. Counterfeit Gods (Book)
In "Counterfeit Gods," pastor and author Timothy Keller shows how a proper understanding of the Bible reveals the unvarnished truth about societal ideals and our own hearts. 

8. Love America, worship God (Article)
Being Christian, especially in the South, has become synonymous with the love of God and love of country. But when it comes to how much we love our country, is there such a thing as too much of a good thing?

9. Is America a Christian nation? (Video)
Russell Moore, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, explains why the United States is not a Christian nation.

10. Worship Must Be Stronger Than Idolatry (Podcast)
Pastor Jon Tyson of Church of the City New York teaches from Romans 1 on why worship must be stronger than idolatry in the church. This message was part of the church’s “This Must Be Stronger Than That” series.

Not sure how to start a conversation around this issue? Take a look at the"Elephant in the Room" toolkit for tips and resources to begin talking about idolatry and other difficult topics at home.