Judges Sermon Series - Part 10
Sermon follow-up 3/10/25
Introduction
The sermon focuses on the dangers of false worship and idolatry through the story in Judges 17-18. It tells of Micah and his mother creating their own shrine with idols, hiring a wandering Levite priest (who turns out to be Moses' grandson), and the tribe of Dan later stealing these items and priest for themselves. The story illustrates how people had forgotten true worship of God and instead were pursuing selfish desires and creating their own forms of worship.
What is True Worship vs. False Worship?
True worship is about raising a "hallelujah" - giving praise and honor to God. It's not about what we can get, but about what we give. While we may receive blessings through worship, that should never be our primary motivation.
False worship, or idolatry, is often rooted in our desire for control. We want to shape God into our image rather than submitting to Him as He is. This leads to self-focused religion that's more about personal gain than genuine devotion.
What Happens When We Focus on Ourselves Instead of God?
The story shows several consequences of self-focused worship:
How Does Jesus Provide the Answer?
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who leads us when we're "harassed and helpless." Unlike the false shepherds in this story who led people astray, Jesus laid down His life for His sheep. He provides the true leadership and care we need.
Life Application
Introduction
The sermon focuses on the dangers of false worship and idolatry through the story in Judges 17-18. It tells of Micah and his mother creating their own shrine with idols, hiring a wandering Levite priest (who turns out to be Moses' grandson), and the tribe of Dan later stealing these items and priest for themselves. The story illustrates how people had forgotten true worship of God and instead were pursuing selfish desires and creating their own forms of worship.
What is True Worship vs. False Worship?
True worship is about raising a "hallelujah" - giving praise and honor to God. It's not about what we can get, but about what we give. While we may receive blessings through worship, that should never be our primary motivation.
False worship, or idolatry, is often rooted in our desire for control. We want to shape God into our image rather than submitting to Him as He is. This leads to self-focused religion that's more about personal gain than genuine devotion.
What Happens When We Focus on Ourselves Instead of God?
The story shows several consequences of self-focused worship:
- It leads to spiritual compromise
- It causes us to use religion for personal gain
- It harms others around us
- It creates chaos and destruction
- It can impact future generations negatively
How Does Jesus Provide the Answer?
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who leads us when we're "harassed and helpless." Unlike the false shepherds in this story who led people astray, Jesus laid down His life for His sheep. He provides the true leadership and care we need.
Life Application
- Consider these questions and challenges:
- Am I worshiping God for who He is, or for what I can get from Him?
- Where in my life might I be trying to control God rather than surrender to Him?
- How can I focus more on giving in worship rather than receiving?
- This week's challenge: Take time each day to worship God simply for who He is, without asking for anything in return. Practice surrendering control through intentional praise and thanksgiving.
- Remember: True worship isn't about what we get - it's about giving our whole hearts to the only One worthy of our praise.
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