Lord’s Day 34
Q95. What is idolatry?
Idolatry is trusting in anything instead of, or alongside, the only true God who has shown himself to us in his Word.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
1 Chronicles 16:26
“For all the gods of the people idols: but the LORD made the heavens.”
Galatians 4:8–9
“Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?”
Ephesians 5:5
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”
Philippians 3:19
“Whose end destruction, whose God belly, and glory in their shame, who mind earthly things.)”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
How does the catechism define idolatry?
- 2
Can something good become an idol, and how does that happen?
- 3
What are some things kids your age might be tempted to trust more than God?
Illustration
A trophy is fine sitting on a shelf. But if you started talking to it, asking it for help, and basing your whole identity on it, something would be very wrong. Idolatry is not always about statues. It is trusting anything to do for you what only God can do. Friends, grades, sports, approval from others. Any of these can become an idol.
Application
Pick one thing you care about a lot and ask yourself honestly: do I trust this to make me happy more than I trust God? If so, confess it. Ask God to take first place in your heart again.