Bible Question: After searching every concordance imaginable, I still can't find the place in the NEW TESTAMENT where we are instructed NOT to possess or make images/sculptures of any kind (alluding to idols, but seems like more than that). Can anyone help me out? |
Bible Answer: Dear Student, You are correct in stating you have not found anything in the NT instructing God's people not to possess or make images or sculptures of "any" kind, because God is only concerned with those images which represent spiritual things. Secular art or photographs are not a concern to God if they do not relate to spiritual matters. NT Scripture is clear that God still prohibits the manufacture and use of any manmade item possessing a spiritual meaning (Acts 17:29; 19:24-25; 1Jo5:21). Statues or images of Jesus, Mary or angels are clearly not desired by God (Deu 4:15-16; LK 11:27-28; Col 2:18-19), but even less obvious idols such as "WWJD" adornments and "Christian" fish are spoken against in scripture by the necessary inference that God does not desire His people to use symbols of any kind to proclaim their righteousness (MT6:1). We need only to remember Jesus' rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees. (MK12:38-40; MT23:1-7) Though the majority may not agree with this viewpoint, neither did the majority survive the great flood. In the end, you must decide for yourself. Keeping praying for help as you seek an understanding of God’s word. AO |