We often misunderstand what idolatry was in the Old Testament. Today, we see what it actually was in Zephaniah. The people never stopped worshiping the Lord. They continued worshiping God. But, they did not fully trust in God. They doubted, they feared. So, they would worship this idol, too, just to be safe. Our idol is not some wooden statue on top of our mantle. Our idol is the thing that we are tempted to place in trust in instead of God. That’s what idolatry is. Today, what is your idol?

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Good morning. It’s great to be with you on this Memorial Day. I hope you are enjoying your day, no matter where you find yourself. On this day, I often reflect on how fortunate I’ve been in my ministry to serve so many active duty military members and veterans. Their sacrifices, and those of their families, have taught me a lot about the military and the profound commitments made for our country. Today, let’s take a moment to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. As we go about our activities, let’s honor their memory.

I’m reminded of the line from “America the Beautiful”: “O beautiful for patriot dream, that sees beyond the years, thine alabaster cities gleam, undimmed by human tears!” This powerful line reminds us of the patriot’s dream and the sacrifices made for it. Many members of my congregations have lost loved ones in war, and today, we honor those sacrifices and pray for a future where such sacrifices are no longer necessary. Please join me in praying for our country and our military today.

Today, in our series “Rooted in Christ,” we will begin studying the Book of Zephaniah. Zephaniah was a contemporary of Jeremiah and prophesied during the reign of King Josiah, one of Judah’s good kings. Interestingly, Zephaniah’s prophecies came before Josiah’s reforms, which aimed to restore the worship of God and bring the people back to righteousness. This context helps us understand the urgency and significance of Zephaniah’s messages.

Zephaniah’s message is a powerful judgment against Judah and Jerusalem. Verses 4-6 are particularly notable: “I will stretch out my hand against Judah and against all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; I will cut off from this place every remnant of Baal and the name of the idolatrous priests, those who bow down on the roofs to the host of the heavens, those who bow down and swear to the Lord but also swear by Milcom, those who have turned back from following the Lord, who have not sought the Lord or inquired of him.”

This passage highlights the duality in worship practices of the people. They did not abandon worship of Yahweh entirely but combined it with the worship of idols. This syncretism—worshiping God alongside other deities—was the true nature of their idolatry. Idolatry isn’t just about turning away from God entirely; it’s about dividing our loyalty.

Our idols today might not be carved images, but they can be anything we trust alongside or more than God. Often, our greatest idol is security. We crave safety and comfort, and we hedge our bets to ensure it. True faith, however, requires us to step out, even when it’s scary or uncomfortable, trusting that God will provide.

God detests idolatry because it reveals a lack of trust in Him. What idols do you hold onto? What are the things you trust as much as or more than God? Identifying and relinquishing these idols is crucial for fully trusting in God.

Thank you for joining me today as we start Zephaniah. Tomorrow, we’ll continue with chapter two. Have a great Memorial Day, and we’ll see you in the morning.