Monday, March 29, 2010

Isaiah 2:8 – Idols and Ayn Rand

I recently listened to a podcast that talked about the resurgence of the ideas of Ayn Rand in light of recent governmental decisions. Not that long ago I read again (or listened to) both The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged.

In Isaiah 2:8, Israel was condemned for having a land full of idols to which they bow down. In her books, Ayn Rand seems to suggest that we should bow down to those who create visible objects such as great works of art or skyscrapers.

It is one thing to acknowledge that man, being in the image of God, is called to create in imitation of our creator. It is another thing entirely to worship that man or his creation. In the former case, we can worship God who gives gifts to men. In the latter case we are doing what the Apostle Paul condemns in Romans 1:25.

We live in a culture that offers many potential objects of worship. My worship can be drawn away from God almost without a conscious choice on my part. Yet, I am constantly reminded that in the end, it is only my relationship with God that will bring any lasting satisfaction. There is no person, experience or thing that will provide lasting fulfillment.

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