Warnings To the Churches - Idolatry
J.C. Ryle warns that idolatry, though often overlooked in modern times, remains a pervasive and dangerous threat to the true worship of God within the Church.
In this topical sermon, J.C. Ryle addresses the pressing issue of idolatry, emphasizing its continued presence and danger within the Church and society. He provides a clear definition of idolatry, explores its causes, and warns of its subtle manifestations among believers. Ryle calls for vigilance and a return to pure worship of the Triune God, urging Christians to heed the biblical command to flee from idolatry.
Text
\"Flee from idolatry\"
(1 Corinthians 10:14)
Our text for today may seem at first to be hardly needed in our country. In an age of education and intelligence, we might almost fancy it is waste of time to tell us to \"flee from idolatry.\"
I am bold to say that this is a great mistake. I believe that we have come to a time when the subject of idolatry demands a thorough and searching investigation. I believe that idolatry is near us, all around us, and in the midst of us, to a very fearful extent. The second commandment, in one word, is in danger. \"The plague is begun.\"
Without further preface, I propose to consider the following four points:
I. The definition of idolatry. WHAT IS IT?
II. The cause of idolatry. WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?
III. The form idolatry assumes in the visible Church of Christ. WHERE IS IT?
IV. The ultimate termination of idolatry. WHAT WILL END IT?
I feel that the subject is encompassed with many difficulties. Our lot is cast in an age when truth is constantly in danger of being sacrificed to \"toleration,\" \"love,\" and \"peace,\" falsely so-called. Nevertheless, I cannot forget, as a minister, that the Church has given little or no warnings on the subject of idolatry; and, unless I am greatly mistaken, truth about idolatry is, in the highest sense, truth for the times.
I. Let me, then, first of all supply a definition of idolatry. Let me show WHAT IT IS.
It is of the utmost importance that we should understand this. Unless I make this clear, I can do nothing with the subject. Vagueness and indistinctness prevail upon this point, as upon almost every other in religion. The Christian who desires not be continually running aground in his spiritual voyage, must have his channel well buoyed, and his mind well stored with clear definitions.
I say then, that Idolatry is a worship, in which the honor due to the Triune God, and to God only, is given to some of His creatures, or to some invention of His creatures.
It may vary. It may assume different forms, according to the ignorance or the knowledge—the civilization or the barbarism, of those who offer it. It may be grossly absurd and ludicrous, or it may closely border on truth, and being most superficially defended. But whether in the adoration of the idol of Juggernaut, or in the adoration of the Pope in St. Peter\\
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Definition of idolatry as worship due to God alone given to creatures or inventions
- Importance of clear understanding to avoid spiritual error
- Varied forms of idolatry across cultures and knowledge levels
-
II
- Causes of idolatry rooted in human nature and ignorance
- Idolatry arises from misplaced honor and affection
- The danger of tolerating idolatry under the guise of love and peace
-
III
- Manifestations of idolatry within the visible Church
- Warning against subtle and disguised forms of idolatry
- The church’s failure to adequately warn against idolatry
-
IV
- The ultimate end of idolatry through truth and faithful warning
- Call to flee from idolatry as commanded in Scripture
- Hope for the Church’s return to pure worship of the Triune God
Key Quotes
“Idolatry is a worship, in which the honor due to the Triune God, and to God only, is given to some of His creatures, or to some invention of His creatures.” — J.C. Ryle
“I believe that idolatry is near us, all around us, and in the midst of us, to a very fearful extent.” — J.C. Ryle
“The Church has given little or no warnings on the subject of idolatry; and, unless I am greatly mistaken, truth about idolatry is, in the highest sense, truth for the times.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Examine your heart regularly to identify and remove any forms of idolatry.
- Be vigilant against subtle and culturally accepted practices that detract from true worship.
- Commit to honoring God alone in all aspects of life and worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is idolatry according to J.C. Ryle?
Idolatry is worship where honor due to God alone is given to creatures or human inventions.
Why does Ryle believe warnings about idolatry are necessary today?
Because idolatry remains widespread and often goes unrecognized or tolerated in modern society and the Church.
How does idolatry manifest in the visible Church?
It can appear in subtle or disguised forms, including misplaced reverence or practices that detract from true worship.
What is the biblical command related to idolatry cited in the sermon?
The command is to 'flee from idolatry,' as stated in 1 Corinthians 10:14.
What is the ultimate solution to idolatry according to the sermon?
The ultimate solution is the faithful proclamation of truth and a return to worshiping God alone.