Judges 17:5 NKJV
a. Micah had a shrine: Micah first sets up a shrine - sort of a small temple, a place where others came to worship these idols.
b. And made an ephod: Micah imitated the worship at the true tabernacle of God by making an ephod. This was a specific garment worn by priests of Israel.
c. And household idols: In addition to this first idol, Micah also made household idols - literally, terephim - gods that were worshipped in hopes of gaining prosperity and guidance.
d. He consecrated one of his sons, who became his priest: Finally, Micah established an order of priesthood among his sons. In each of these, Micah did everything he could to set up a rival religion in Israel.
i. All of this came from Micah and not from God. This was a completely man-originated and man-centered religion. Therefore, the purpose of the shrine, the beautiful ephod, the attractive idols, and the established priesthood was to serve and please man, not God. This pattern of man-pleasing religion continues to be common with many religions and churches today.
Man-Pleasing Religion
Throughout my lifetime I have been guilty of participating in a man-pleasing religion! From the churches I’ve attended and the attitude I’ve had while attending! When we worry about what others think about us in church, who are we attempting to please?
If Jesus is our Lord then He is the One we should be attempting to please, not man!
”Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.“
James 1:27 NKJV
Dear Heavenly Father please give us the right attitude and heart so we are pleasing You, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Help us be pure and undefiled before You. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
Blessings
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