Idols demand everything and give nothing in return. Our only hope from their lures is to replace them with faith in the true God.
Outline:
1. Idols lead us astray
2. Idols lead us to despair
3. Idols lead us to miss out
Questions for Personal Reflection
1. What "Golden Calf" temptations are most common in our culture today, and how do they subtly draw our hearts away from trusting God?
2. God calls the people "stiff-necked," comparing them to the cow they were worshiping. How are we like cattle today? In what areas of your life are you resisting God's guidance, correction, or authority?
3. Consider how the things you mentioned in Question 2 above might have become idols for you personally. Where have those things fallen short for you? What are some ways making those things your ultimate source of hope and joy and peace have failed you in the past?
4. In Exodus 32:1, the people grew impatient waiting for Moses (and God). How does impatience with God's timing lead us toward spiritual compromise?
5. Re-read Exodus 32:11-14 (Moses first intercession for the people). How does this passage challenge the way we pray for others who are wandering or struggling with sin?
6. Moses' final intercession for the people comes in Exodus 32:31-32. How is this our ultimate solution to our idolatry problem? How does this picture of Christ to come bring you the hope and joy and peace you have been looking for in other places?
7. Pray for God to show us the areas in our life that have become idols, their futility, and to make more beautiful and compelling in our hearts the solution - Jesus Christ!
