Modern Idols – What Are We Worshiping Without Realizing It

What happens when the things we cherish—our careers, our social media presence, even our health routines—quietly usurp the place meant for our spiritual priorities? This episode of the Faith Compass Podcast promises to unveil the subtle yet powerful idols embedded in our modern lives. Join me, Javier, as we explore the intricacies of how technology, ambition, and the quest for certainty can become our newfound gods, drawing on insights from the profound voices of Timothy Keller and John Mark Comer. We'll tackle the uncomfortable truth about how seemingly virtuous pursuits, like productivity and health, may be leading us astray and away from genuine spiritual fulfillment.

Throughout our journey, we will shine a light on the often unnoticed traps of seeking approval, relevance, and comfort in today's frenetic world. This episode challenges us to identify these modern idols, from spiritual consumerism to the idolization of political identity and perfect circumstances. With biblical teachings as our compass and practical advice as our guide, we aim to help you realign your heart with what truly matters. By cultivating gratitude and focusing on the gospel's assurance, we hope to inspire you to overcome these distractions and strengthen your relationship with God. Let's embark on this transformative exploration together, reshaping our lives for deeper spiritual growth.

Chapters

• 0:00 Modern Idols in Everyday Life
• 8:38 Identifying and Overcoming Modern Idols
• 14:32 Recognizing and Overcoming Modern Idols

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:36

Hello and welcome to the Faith Compass Podcast. I'm your host, javier, and I am truly grateful that you decided to join me today. In this episode, we're diving deep into a topic that is both challenging and timely Modern idols. What are we worshiping without realizing it? Today, we're going to explore how, in our fast-paced, technology-driven world, certain values and priorities can become the new object of devotion. We will unpack what the Bible teaches about idolatry, how modern culture sometimes unwittingly replaces the one true God with other gods, and what step we can take to refocus our hearts and what truly matters. Let me start with a quick prayer. Heavenly Father, we come before you with open hearts and minds. Guide our conversations today, illuminate our understanding and help us recognize the hidden idols in our own lives. In Jesus' name, we pray amen. Now, you know, when most of us hear the word idol, we probably picture those ancient golden statues or maybe even modern day celebrities. But today we're diving into something much more subtle and perhaps even more dangerous than the modern idols we might not even realize we're worshiping. Think about this for a moment what's the first thing you check up when you wake up? What consumes your thoughts throughout the day? What makes you feel most secure or anxious? These questions might just reveal some modern idols in your own life.

Speaker 1: 1:46

Timothy Keller, in his profound book Counterfeit Gods, writes something that stopped me in my tracks. He says an idol is anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, and anything that you seek to give you, what only God can give. Now let's look at what scripture tells us about idolatry. In Exodus, chapter 20, verses 3 to 4, we read you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make yourself a carved image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Now you might be thinking well, I definitely don't have any golden calves in my living room, but here's where it gets interesting. Modern idols are often good things that we've turned into ultimate things. They're subtle, sophisticated and often come disguised as virtues.

Speaker 1: 2:34

Now let's explore some of these modern idols that might be lurking in our lives. First up, let's talk about technology and social media. Now, I'm not about to tell you to throw away your smartphone out the window that's not the point. But consider this Research from Global Web Index shows that average person spends over two hours and 24 minutes on social media every day. That's nearly 17 hours a week. In Colossians, chapter 3, verses 2, we're instructed to set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. How many of us can honestly say we spend even a fraction of social media time in prayer or Bible study?

Speaker 1: 3:05

Now, the author John Mark Comer, in his book the Ruslan Elimination of Hurry, makes a compelling point about our digital addiction. He suggests that our constant connectivity has created a new form of idolatry the worship of immediate gratification and constant stimulation. Now let's move on to another modern aisle career success and achievement. Now, there's absolutely nothing wrong with working hard and pursuing excellence. In fact, colossians, chapter 3, verses 23, tells us whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord and not for men.

Speaker 1: 3:33

But here's where it gets tricky when does healthy ambition cross the line into idolatry? The author Paul Tripp, in his book New Morning Mercies, warns us about the dangers of finding our identity in our own accomplishments rather than in Christ. Now think about it. Do you feel worthless when you're not productive? Does a setback at work feel like a personal crisis? These might be signs that career success has become an idol in your life. Now here's another might or idol that might surprise you Health and wellness. Now, before you close your podcast app, hear me out.

Speaker 1: 4:03

Taking care of our bodies is a biblical thing. 1 Corinthians 6, verses 9 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. But in our culture we've seen the rise of what some scholars call healthism, where physical health becomes an all-consuming focus. Clean eating, exercise routines, wellness practices can become religious rituals when we place our hope in the latest diet trend of fitness programming rather than God's providence. Where we've crossed? That's where we've crossed into ideology. Russell Moore, in his book Tempted and Tried, points out our culture has turned into a into health, into a form of salvation narrative where we're promised transformation, redemption and a better life, all through our own efforts rather than through grace.

Speaker 1: 4:45

Now let's talk about another subtle power. You know another subtle power. You know another subtle power, but powerful idol control. In our uncertain world, we often try to create security through planning, preparing and controlling every aspect of our lives. But Proverbs, chapter 19, verse 21, reminds us many are the plans in the mind of man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. David Paulson in his book Seeing Seeing With New Eyes describes how our desire for control often masks a deeper issue our struggle to trust God fully. We might say we trust God, but our anxiety and constant need to manage everything suggests otherwise. Now here's a might and idol. That's particularly relevant.

Speaker 1: 5:21

Information and knowledge. In our information age. We can easily fall into the trap of thinking that if we just know enough, read enough or understand enough, we'll find peace and security. But 1 Corinthians, chapter 8, verses 1, warns us that knowledge puffs up while love builds up. Now Albert Merler, in his book the Prayer that Turns the World Upside Down, discusses how culture, worship of information, can actually become a barrier to true wisdom. We become so focused on acquiring knowledge that we miss the relationship that God gives us that knowledge brings.

Speaker 1: 5:52

Now let's explore another modern idol comfort and convenience. Now we live in an age of unprecedented comfort, where almost anything can be delivered to our doorstep with a few clicks. But has this ease made us spiritually soft? Now James, chapter 1, verses 2 through 4, tell us Count it all. Joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know not that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Now Eugene Patterson, in his book A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, challenges us to consider how our pursuit of comfort might be hampering our spiritual growth. He suggests that we often choose what's comfortable or what's transformative.

Speaker 1: 6:26

Now here's one that might hit close to home Family and relationships. Now, loving our family is absolutely biblical. Let me repeat that Loving our family is absolutely biblical. But even good things can become idols when they take God's place in our hearts. In Matthew 10, verse 37, jesus makes this striking statement Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

Speaker 1: 6:52

Now, paul David Tripp, in his book Parenting, warns about the danger of making our children's success, happiness or approval our ultimate source of satisfaction. Now, when we do this, we're not only creating an idol, we're placing an impossible burden on our relationship. Now, let's talk about a particularly insidious modern idol. We're placing an impossible burden on our relationship. Now let's talk about a particularly insidious modern idol self-image and identity. In our self-saturated culture, we're constantly curating and presenting versions of ourselves to the world. But Galatians, chapter 1, verse 10, challenges us, for I am now seeking the approval of man or of God, or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Jackie Hill Perry, in her book Gay Girl, good God, powerfully discusses how culture's obsession with self-determination and identity can become a form of idolatry. She reminds us that our true identity is found in Christ alone.

Speaker 1: 7:39

Now another modern idol worth examining financial security. Money itself isn't evil, but 1 Timothy, chapter 6, verses 10, warns us that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. In our uncertain economic times, it's easy to put our trust in our savings account rather than in god's provisions. Dave ramsey, in his book the legacy journey, addresses this hard issue of financial idolatry in a compelling way. He explains how, even while we profess trust in god with our lips, our anxiety about money often reveals where our true security lies. He challenges believers to examine whether their peace comes from their portfolio or from their provider.

Speaker 1: 8:15

Now let's consider another modern idol entertainment and leisure. There's nothing wrong with recreation and rest after all, even Jesus took time to rest but when entertainment becomes our primary source of satisfaction and meaning, we've entered dangerous territory. Entertainment becomes our primary source of satisfaction and meaning, we've entered dangerous territory Now. David Wells, in his book God in the Wasteland, warns us about how our entertainment driven society can gradually dull our spiritual awareness. He points out that our endless pursuit of amusement often conceals a deeper longing for authentic communion with God.

Speaker 1: 8:39

Now here's a minor idol that might surprise you. Ministry and religious activity yes, even good Christian activities can become idols. In Matthew, chapter 7, verses 22 through 23, jesus warns us that many will say to him Lord, lord, did we not prophesize in your name and cast out demons in your name and do many mighty works in your name? And he will declare to them I never knew you. John Orberg, in his book the Life You've Always Wanted, encourages us to reflect on whether our spiritual practices are generally deepening our relationship with God or merely serving as a stand-in for true intimacy with Him.

Speaker 1: 9:10

Now let's talk about one more idol the approval of others.

Speaker 1: 9:13

Social media has amplified our natural desire for approval, but Galatians, chapter 1, verses 10, reminds us for I am now seeking the approval of man or of God, or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ, ray Ortlund, in his book the Gospel, discusses how our desire for approval can become a form of bondage that prevents us from fully experiencing the freedom that Christ offers. So how do we identify and deal with these modern idols in our lives? Now, here are some practical steps. First, we need to practice regular self-examination. Psalm, chapter 139, verses 23 to 24, provides us a beautiful prayer for this. Search me, o God, and know my heart. Try, try me and know my thoughts and see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Second, we need to be honest about what truly captures our attention and affection. What do we think about most? What do we fear losing most? These questions often reveal our idols.

Speaker 1: 10:09

Third, we need to actively replace our idols with worship of the true God. This isn't just about removing things from our lives. It's about filling that space with something better. As Augustine famously said, our hearts are restless until they rest in you Now. Fourth, we need to cultivate gratitude. When we're thankful for what God has given us, we're less likely to turn gifts into idols. 1 Thessalonians 5, verse 18 instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. And fifth, we need to regularly remind ourselves of the gospel. The good news is that Jesus has already done everything necessary for our salvation, security and significance. We don't need these modern idols. We have something far better.

Speaker 1: 10:50

You know, one aspect of modern idolatry we haven't discussed yet is what I call the productivity paradox. We live in an age where being busy is often seen as a badge of honor. The author, jared Wilson, in his book the Gospel Driven Life, points out how we turn busyness into a form of secular righteousness. Think about this. When someone asks, how are you doing, you often respond I'm busy, we're here. We wear our exhaustions like a medal, don't we? But what does scripture say about this? In Psalm, chapter 46, verses 10, we're commanded to be still and know that I am God. This isn't just a suggestion, it's a command. Now let's dive deep into why this matters. When we're constantly busy, we often miss the still small voice of God. We're too preoccupied with our to-do lists to notice His presence. Isaiah, chapter 30, verse 15, tells us In returning and rest, you shall be saved. In quietness and in trust shall be your strength.

Speaker 1: 11:39

Now, another modern idol we need to address is what I call intellectual Christianity. This is where we replace a living relationship with God with mere knowledge about him. Now don't get me wrong. Theological understanding is crucial. But James, chapter 2, verses 19, reminds us that even the demons believe and shudder. Rc Sproul in his book the Holiness of God warns us about the dangers of reducing our faith to mere intellectual assent. He points out how we can become so focused on understanding God that we forget about knowing him personally.

Speaker 1: 12:05

Now let's talk about another subtle idol the worship of relevance. In our effort to stay current and connected, we can sometimes compromise biblical truth. But 2 Timothy, chapter 4, verses 3 through 4, warns us, for the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching but have itching ears. They will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. John Stott, in his book Between Two Worlds, emphasizes that the church pursuit of relevance can sometimes distract from the unchanging truth of Scripture. He points out that the gospel does not need to be made relevant. It is inherently relevant to every generation.

Speaker 1: 12:40

Now here's another modern idol we need to confront the idol of personal comfort and material success. Tim Keller, among others, has highlighted how easily it is that these desires can take place of our true devotion. Too often we allow our pursuit of security and ease to overshadow the call to seek first God's kingdom. Think about this how many of our decisions are based on maintaining our comfortable lifestyle rather than following Christ's call? Matthew, chapter 16, verse 24, challenges us if anyone will come after me, let him deny himself and take up the cross and follow me.

Speaker 1: 13:08

Now let's explore another aspect of modern idolatry the worship of certainty. In our age of instant information and expert opinions, we can fall into a trap of thinking we need to have everything figured out. But Hebrews, chapter 11, verse 1, reminds us that the faith is the assurance of things hoped for, for the convictions of things not seen. Mark Dever, in his book Nine Marks of a Healthy Church, points out how a desire for absolute certainty in everything can actually be a form of pride. Sometimes faith means trusting God even when we don't have all the answers.

Speaker 1: 13:35

Now another model, you know, another modern idol worth examining is what I call the experience economy. Now we live in a time where experiences are often valued above everything else. Travel, concerts, adventures these are not bad things, but they can become idols when we look for them to ultimate fulfillment. Now, john Piper, in his book Don't Waste your Life, challenges us to consider whether we're living for a temporary experience or eternal impact. He reminds us that the true joy isn't found in accumulating experiences, but in knowing Christ.

Speaker 1: 14:03

Now let's talk about the idol of instant gratification. Our on-demand culture has trained us to expect immediate results in everything but James, chapter 5, verses 7, tells us to be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmers wait for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it until it receives the early and the late rains. John Mark Comer, in his book the Ruthless Inertia of Hurry, explores how our struggle with impatience can be a barrier to spiritual growth. He emphasizes that God often uses seasons of waiting to shape our character and deepen our faith.

Speaker 1: 14:33

Now here's a modern idol that's particularly relevant in our polarized times political identity, when our politics affiliations become more important than our identity in Christ. We've created an idol. Romans, chapter 13, verse 1, reminds us to be subject to governing authorities, but our ultimate allegiance must be to Christ alone. Russell Moore, in his book Onward, warns us about the danger of conflating Christianity with political movements. He reminds us that our primary citizenship is in heaven, as Philippians, chapter 3, verses 20, tells us.

Speaker 1: 15:03

Let's examine another subtle idol the worship of potential. Now we live in a culture obsessed with untapped potential and endless possibilities. While growth and development are good things, they become idols when we never satisfy what God has us right now. Paul writes in the words in Philippians, chapter 4, verses 11. He challenges this mindset. I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content now. That doesn't mean we don't strive for growth, but it does mean trust God in timing and in purpose in our current season.

Speaker 1: 15:31

Now, another modern idol we need to address is what I call spiritual consumerism. This is where we treat our faith like a product and church like a vendor and God like a cosmic vending machine. But Isaiah, chapter 55, verse 8, reminds us that God's ways are not our ways and his thoughts are not our thoughts. Kevin DeYoung in his book Just Do Something, addresses how this consumer's mindset can paralyze us spiritually. We become so focused on finding the perfect church, the perfect ministry or the perfect spiritual experience that we miss what God is doing right in front of us.

Speaker 1: 16:01

Now let's talk about one more idol the myth of self-sufficiency. Our culture celebrates independence and self-reliance, but 2 Corinthians 12, verse 9 tells us that God's power is made perfect in weakness. When we refuse to acknowledge our need for God and others, we've created an idol of self-sufficiency. You know, as we've explored these various forms of modern idolatry, one thing has become clear Idols always promise what God can deliver. They promise security, significance, satisfaction, but they never truly deliver. They're all counterfeit gods, as Timothy Keller would say. You know, there's something else we need to discuss when it comes to modern idols what I call the authenticity trap. Our culture places a high performance on authenticity and while being genuine is important, we can turn authenticity into self, into an idol. Paul Washer, in his teachings, often reminds us that true authenticity comes from being conformed to Christ's image, not just to bring true ourselves. Now consider 2 Corinthians 5, verse 17. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come. True authenticity isn't about holding onto whether we have always been. It's about allowing Christ to transform us into what we were meant to be.

Speaker 1: 17:09

Now let's explore another sort of modern idol the pursuit of influence. In our social media age, we become obsessed with platforms, followers and influence. But Jesus talks about a different kind of influence In Matthew 5, verse 13, where he says you are the salt of the earth. Notice he doesn't say you should try to become the salt of the earth. Our influence should be a natural overhaul of our relationship with Christ, not something we pursue for its own sake. Dallas Willard, in his writings, emphasizes that our pursuit of influence can sometimes undermine our genuine impact for God's kingdom. When we focus far too much on building a platform, we may fail to see the everyday opportunities for ministry that God has already placed in our path.

Speaker 1: 17:47

Now here's another modern idol. We need to talk about the idol of perfect circumstances. We tell ourselves I will be faithful when I I will serve when I will give when. But in 2 Corinthians 6, verse 12, we are reminded now is the favorable time, now is the day of salvation. We don't need to wait for the perfect moment. God calls us to act in faith right now. Charles Spurgeon once said something profound about this tendency to wait for the perfect circumstance. He noted that if we wait for perfect conditions, we'll never serve God at all. The enemy loves to keep us in a perpetual waiting pattern, always preparing but never actually engaging in kingdom work.

Speaker 1: 18:21

Let's talk about what I call optimization idol. We live in an age where everything can be optimized our schedule, our health, our productivity, even our spirituality. But sometimes this pursuit of optimization can become an idol that keeps us from simple obedience. Think about Mary and Martha in Luke, chapter 10, verses 41 through 42. Martha, martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her. Sometimes our pursuit of optimization can keep us from simply sitting at Jesus' feet.

Speaker 1: 18:51

Now, another unmodern idol we need to address is what I call tribal Christianity. This happens when our specific Christian group, whether it's our denomination, favorite pastor or worship style, becomes more important than Christ himself. Jesus reminds us in chapter 17, verse 21, that all of them may be one Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. Our focus should be on unity in christ, not division over preferences. Matt chandler, in his teachings, warns us about this. Tribal mentality can create unnecessary divisions in the body of christ, but we can have our preferences and convictions. They should never become idols that prevent us from loving the broader body of christ.

Speaker 1: 19:26

Now let's examine another subtle idol the worship of balance. Now, balance isn't bad, but when we pursue it you know, pursue it as an ultimate goal we can miss the radical nature of following Christ. Jesus didn't call us to a balanced life, he calls us to a surrendered life. Think about his words in Luke, chapter 14, verse 26. If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters yes, even his own life cannot be my disciple. That doesn't sound very imbalanced, does it? Sometimes following Christ means being radically imbalanced by the world's standards.

Speaker 1: 19:59

Now let's talk about another modern idol the pursuit of options. Our cultural values are having endless choices and keeping our options open. But this can become an idol that prevents us from making commitments and living decisively with Christ. Joshua 24, verse 15, challenges us choose this day whom you will serve. David Wells, in his book Guiding the Whirlwind, discusses how our culture's obsession with options can actually paralyze us spiritually. We become so afraid of making the wrong choice that we make no choice at all.

Speaker 1: 20:27

Now here's a modern eye that's particularly relevant the idol of explanation. We often think if we can't just explain everything about our faith, about God's ways, about suffering, then everything will be okay. But Job, chapter 42, verse 3, reminds us of our limitations. I have uttered what I did not understand. Things too wonderful for me which I did not know. Remember how Job wanted his explanations from God. Instead of explanation, god gave him a deeper revelation of himself. Sometimes we need to let go of our need to understand everything and simply just trust in who God is.

Speaker 1: 21:01

Now let's address one final modern article before we wrap up the article of spiritual experience. While spiritual experiences can be wonderful gifts from God, we can sometimes chase the experience rather than God who gives them. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5, verse 7 that we walk by faith and not by sight. Cs Lewis, in his writings, warns about the danger of seeking spiritual experience for their own sake. He reminds us that true faith is not about chasing feelings or extraordinary moments, but about knowing God and loving God. Lewis emphasizes that our relationship with God should be built on trust and obedience, not on the constant pursuit of emotional or supernatural experiences.

Speaker 1: 21:37

Before we close today's episode, I want to speak directly to those who might be wrestling with what you've heard today. Maybe you've recognized some idols in your own life and you're feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you have never made a decision to follow Jesus and you're realizing that nothing else can fill the God-shaped void in your heart. If that's you, I want you to know there's hope. Romans, chapter 10, verses 9 through 10, tells us if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Right now, wherever you are, you can turn to Jesus. You don't need to clean yourself up or figure everything out. Jesus invites you to come just as you are.

Speaker 1: 22:13

If you would like to make this decision or just need someone to talk to about your faith journey, please reach out to us at thecrossroadscollectiveorg or email us at thecrossroadsot at gmailcom. We have people ready to pray with you and walk alongside you in your journey. And for those of you who might be struggling with thoughts of hopelessness or depression, please know that you're not alone. You can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is available 24-7 by texting 988. There are people who want to help and who care about you deeply.

Speaker 1: 22:41

Now let's close with a prayer Heavenly Father, we come before you, humbled by the revelation of idols in our lives. Thank you for your patience with us, for your grace that's keeping drawing us back to you. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on you, jesus, the author and the perfecter of our faith For these wrestling with decisions today. Give them the courage to choose you above all else. For those feeling hopeless, remind them of your never failing love and presence. We trust you to continue the good work you become in each of us. In Jesus name, I pray Amen. Remember my beloved listeners. No idol can satisfy what only God can fulfill. He alone is worthy of our ultimate worship and devotion. This is Javier signing off from the Faith Compass Podcast. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus, the true north of our faith. God bless.