God's At War - Now I Can Finally Put a Name To Some Modern-Day Idols

One of the most difficult parts of applying the Old Testament to 21st Century life is figuring out what to do with idols and gods.  As in the lower-case "g" gods.  The prequel to Jesus includes page after page of false gods, stone and wooden idols, temples, and all of the idolatry associated with them.  Even as a child I remember asking what are our idols?  The answer? "An idol is anything can is more important to you than God."  Here is the problem with that answer:  while it is true, it is so vague that it is almost useless.  Besides, who would really admit that there is anything more important to us than God?  I have believed for so many years that in order for this line of reasoning to be helpful, we must begin naming some of our gods.  It is time to start pointing fingers.

In Kyle Idleman's book Gods At War, he does exactly that.  Nine gods are exposed, each with their own chapter.  I was convicted.  I was also inspired.

Idleman does not just point out specific gods.  He shares stories of regular folks who have struggled with idol worship and how by the power of Christ they dethroned their idols.  The book also includes QR codes to videos in which readers can hear more of the stories told in the book.

In his convicting, yet inspiring style, Idleman paints a picture of a jealous God who longs for our complete devotion.“God is jealous for your heart, not because he is petty or insecure, but because he loves you. The reason why God has such a huge problem with idolatry is that his love for you is all-consuming. He loves you too much to share you.”  Do you hear that?  He not only describes God as jealous, but casts his jealously in terms of love - and rightfully so!  In this work we discover a compelling case for the Old Testament theme of God's jealousy!

Just as in his book Not a Fan, Kyle Idleman speaks powerfully to Americans who think they are Christians merely because they believe in God or because they prayed a certain prayer decades ago.  I believe this is a must-read for every adult Christian!