You don't have to build a physical calf to be idolatrous. Greed, being a form of idolatry, is a "golden calf." Greed is first conceived in man's spirit, then manifested through his behavior.
The children of Israel first gave thought to the idea of erecting the golden calf before they, being of one accord (i.e. same mindset), contributed to its' physical being. THEY DEVOTED CONSIDERABLE TIME AND EFFORT. They were even willing to donate their riches of silver and gold, to the manufacturing of their preconceived graven image. But, they were unwilling to submit to God's will. Mind you, the promise was right in front of them, but held captive in idolatry, they couldn't see it. They grew impatient while awaiting God's perfect timing. Consequently, giving in to their own desires, they rebelled against Him, and leaning to their own understanding, they erected a golden calf and compassed it about. To compass is not just defiance to The Word of God, it's wicked: (Habakkuk Ch.1 v.4). Therefore, God's response was like that of an "old school" parent: "I'll give you something to compass about." God made them compass a mountain for forty years, thereby causing them to have to wait even longer. Again, God calls for His cities and nations to "WAIT PATIENTLY" for Him. He knows the reason.
Nazareth was another example of selfish greed (spiritual idolatry). It's ironic that, while Nazareth refused to recognize Jesus for his true identity, she demanded the rewards that came through his identity. Though she was eager for the rewards, that the other cities were getting, she remained unwilling to operate according to Jesus's protocol. He was essentially attempting to help her understand the value of humility and the importance of being patient, but her reaction was one of unjust malice and aggression. The promise stood right before Nazareth. Unfortunately, she chose to try to destroy what she could not control: (Luke Ch.4 v.29-30).
In keeping to her own protocol, Nazareth sabotaged her standing with Christ. Rather than filling the pot, a defiant Nazareth struck the rock. Therefore, to this very day she has not received that which she presumptuously demanded from Jesus.
The children of Israel first gave thought to the idea of erecting the golden calf before they, being of one accord (i.e. same mindset), contributed to its' physical being. THEY DEVOTED CONSIDERABLE TIME AND EFFORT. They were even willing to donate their riches of silver and gold, to the manufacturing of their preconceived graven image. But, they were unwilling to submit to God's will. Mind you, the promise was right in front of them, but held captive in idolatry, they couldn't see it. They grew impatient while awaiting God's perfect timing. Consequently, giving in to their own desires, they rebelled against Him, and leaning to their own understanding, they erected a golden calf and compassed it about. To compass is not just defiance to The Word of God, it's wicked: (Habakkuk Ch.1 v.4). Therefore, God's response was like that of an "old school" parent: "I'll give you something to compass about." God made them compass a mountain for forty years, thereby causing them to have to wait even longer. Again, God calls for His cities and nations to "WAIT PATIENTLY" for Him. He knows the reason.
Nazareth was another example of selfish greed (spiritual idolatry). It's ironic that, while Nazareth refused to recognize Jesus for his true identity, she demanded the rewards that came through his identity. Though she was eager for the rewards, that the other cities were getting, she remained unwilling to operate according to Jesus's protocol. He was essentially attempting to help her understand the value of humility and the importance of being patient, but her reaction was one of unjust malice and aggression. The promise stood right before Nazareth. Unfortunately, she chose to try to destroy what she could not control: (Luke Ch.4 v.29-30).
In keeping to her own protocol, Nazareth sabotaged her standing with Christ. Rather than filling the pot, a defiant Nazareth struck the rock. Therefore, to this very day she has not received that which she presumptuously demanded from Jesus.
"You don't demand nothing from Jesus."
Notice how God describes a physical idol:
"For the practices of the peoples are worthless; they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel. They adorn it with silver and gold; they fasten it with hammer and nails so it will not totter." (Jeremiah Ch.10 v.3-4, NIV)
Sounds like a trophy, which, when pursued in vanity and haste is worthless.
Now, notice what God says to Ezekiel:
“Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?" (Ezekiel Ch.14 v.3)
Both spirit and motivation must be right. Defiance sabotages your own offering.
God's timing is perfect.
