Idolatry: it’s all about me - narcissism

You gotta serve somebody It may be the devil or it may be the Lord But you gotta serve somebody

1. Idolatry is a consequence of being a worshipper: we all have to worship/ serve something. 3. Idolatry is misplaced commitment 2. Idolatry is worship of the created rather than the creator

4. Idolatry dehumanises - we become like what we worship Ps 115: 6,7 Ps 135: 15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of human hands. 16 They have mouths, but do not speak; they have eyes, but do not see; 17 they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them become like them , so do all who trust in them!

You got to serve yourself nobody gonna do for you You gotta serve yourself nobody gonna do for you Well you may believe in devils and you may believe in laws But if you don't go out and serve yourself, la, ain't no room service here

342,408

Caravaggio’s Narcissus

Gen X: 1961-1981 Gen Y: post 1981? iGen or Gen Me 1981-1999 shaped by technology Different generations:

Be yourself Believe in yourself Love yourself Express yourself Respect yourself If it feels good do it Typical expressions:

Me first It’s all about me Self-esteem Self-actualisation Unwillingness to take personal responsibility Focus on celebrity and money Typical characteristics:

Where are we? Who are we? What’s the problem? What’s the solution? I am me! In a world that has no meaning - unless I choose to give it meaning Society, family and anything that doesn’t let me express myself Be me – be myself, do what feels good!

CREATOR CREATION Creator and Creation are distinct

CREATOR CREATION

CREATOR CREATION self

CREATOR CREATION self

CREATOR CREATION self

CREATOR CREATION self

CREATOR CREATION self

CREATOR CREATION self

For the Christian, the self is the problem not the potential paradise. Understanding this problem involves an awareness of sin

Dear Sirs, I am. Sincerely yours, G. K. Chesterton

Good Go d god God

1. Ask God 2. Ask others 3. Read 4. Watch out 5. Go to other cultures and return 6. Watch adverts critically 7. Say YES to the Jealous God who demands full allegiance. Exposing idols- a seven point plan: