The LCS Factor

[Matt Anderson]

Originally Posted by OBW

Actually, I think that idolatry is probably a very real issue. There might also be other issues. But as part of my further thoughts on the issue, I'm beginning to wonder if throwing the term "idolatry" around might be sort of like my tendency to throw the "C" word around.

I understood most of what you were saying in your post. The one distinction I think should be drawn between "idolatry" and the "C" word is that the "cult" word is just a label that is a noun.

Idolatry is a specific act of sinfulness described by the Word of God that our behavior can be measured against. I used the Benson example because it was so extreme and clear. I think there are lesser examples that still have application, but it is left to the reader to approach the Lord for their own part. I'm pointing at the Word (with some level of implication) on this subject of idolatry. Without seeing and understanding it, it can be just another label, like the "cult" word.

It's been a 17 year journey for my eyes to slowly open to see it more clearly in my own life. As the light shines, I'm getting better focus on it. It's another one of those things that even with all my good efforts, I can't really get it right apart from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Psa 19:1-14 For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament showeth his handiwork. (2) Day unto day uttereth speech, And night unto night showeth knowledge. (3) There is no speech nor language; Their voice is not heard. (4) Their line is gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, (5) Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoiceth as a strong man to run his course. (6) His going forth is from the end of the heavens, And his circuit unto the ends of it; And there is nothing hid from the heat thereof. (7) The law of Jehovah is perfect, restoring the soul: The testimony of Jehovah is sure, making wise the simple. (8) The precepts of Jehovah are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of Jehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes. (9) The fear of Jehovah is clean, enduring for ever: The ordinances of Jehovah are true, and righteous altogether. (10) More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the droppings of the honeycomb. (11) Moreover by them is thy servant warned: In keeping them there is great reward. (12) Who can discern his errors? Clear thou me from hidden faults. (13) Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me: Then shall I be upright, And I shall be clear from great transgression. (14) Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in thy sight, O Jehovah, my rock, and my redeemer.

Matt