“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” — Exodus 20:3
What comes to mind when you hear the word idolatry? For many, it conjures images of golden statues or ancient altars, something far removed from modern life. But the truth is, idolatry is alive and well—woven subtly and sometimes blatantly into the fabric of our culture.
What Is Idolatry?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, idolatry is not only the worship of statues or false gods, but also “excessive admiration or love for someone or something.” To idolize someone is “to admire or love them very much”—like the adoration fans often show toward athletes or celebrities.
In today’s world, this kind of admiration is encouraged. From childhood, we’re taught to admire fictional heroes like Superman or Batman. As we grow, these posters and toys are often replaced with celebrity fanfare, sports obsessions, or a constant hunger for entertainment. All of these can quietly take the place of what should be the central focus of our lives: God.
The Progression of Cultural Idolatry
By the time many reach adulthood, idolatry has evolved. No longer limited to fictional characters or pop stars, it often becomes a devotion to wealth, fame, and status. The “almighty dollar” becomes the god of choice for many, and their daily decisions revolve around the pursuit of more—more money, more recognition, more possessions.
“No servant can serve two masters… Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” — Luke 16:13
Even more alarming is the rise of technology as an idol—chiefly, the cell phone. It’s the one object nearly everyone clings to from morning until night. Many don’t even realize how much of their focus, time, and emotional energy is poured into this device. Whether it’s social media, entertainment, or constant communication, the phone often becomes the center of our attention—our unspoken god.
It’s not wrong to own a phone, use social media, or have favorite athletes and music. But when these things consume us, when they distract us from God or take His place in our hearts, they become idols.
“And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods… ye shall surely perish.” — Deuteronomy 8:19
“Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey…?” — Romans 6:16
Recognizing and Resisting Modern Idolatry
We must examine ourselves honestly:
- What commands our attention each day?
- What do we turn to for comfort, escape, or validation?
- What would cause us the greatest distress if taken away?
If the answer to any of those is something other than God, we may be in danger of idol worship—even unknowingly.
“Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.” — 1 Corinthians 10:14
Final Thoughts
Idolatry in the modern age doesn’t always look like carved statues. It can look like a bank account, a social media feed, a sports team, or even a phone screen. But the command remains unchanged: “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.”
Let’s reclaim our hearts and minds for God. Let’s refocus our worship and affection toward the One who truly deserves it.