5 Idols of Evangelicalism

Before I go any farther, I want to make it clear that I identify as an evangelical. I speak not as an outsider who hates evangelicals but as an insider who is concerned.

Most of the things that I am going to include are bad of themselves but how they are used can be dangerous and the warning signs are there.

Masculinity

There is a growing attraction toward masculinity and lifting it up as a measure for the spiritual health of men in particular and churches in general.

What many people don’t realize is that there is a specific cultural definition of masculinity that is being used as the measure. It is western and it is modern.

Of course there is nothing wrong with enjoying sports or going hunting or any of the other things that the modern masculinity values. But not every man is into the traditional “manly man” lifestyle. That does not make them any less masculine.

The other thing I want to mention is that masculinity that positions itself by putting down women or men who do not fit their expectations is toxic masculinity.

Culture War

If you have ever visited my blog, you will know that I have little patience for the culture war. The culture war is the battle between conservatives and liberals to shape the culture.

I have seen many Christians embrace what is best for their side of the culture war even if it does not align with the teachings of Jesus. They are willing to compromise on kingdom principles as long as it is useful in fighting the other side.

Excellence

As a pastor, I do value excellence. It bothers me when people involved in leading a worship service act like they just don’t care. We should try our best.

But excellence can be shaped into an idol. Some churches see the quality of the show they put on as the requirement for growing their church. And you can grow a church with excellence.

But excellence can be used to exclude and diminish people. People can mistake excellence for what is really valued by God.

Political Power

This one overlaps with the culture war somewhat. But this is so specific that it deserves its own category. First, it is not wrong to be politically active. Christians can vote, run of office and lobby for causes.

The problem is when the church is willing to sell their soul for political influence. I can think of recent examples that I will not share here. Christians can be quick to drop their convictions when they sense the possibility of gaining political power.

The thought is that once the Christians get some of that power, they will be able to use if for noble causes. However, they rarely recognize that the politicians that are wooing them are doing so with very specific motives.

The Bible

I left the most controversial idol for last. Yes, the Bible can be an idol. I understand that not everyone agrees with me on this one.

There are people who love the Bible, who are zealous for their interpretation, and who will argue for ever single verse. But they may not follow Jesus.

I love the Bible and I have studied it closely for thirty years. But the Bible is not the goal. The Bible is the window by which we see God. Problems arise when people pay more attention to the beauty of the window than they do to what we are supposed to look at.

What do you think? Do you agree that these can be idols? I am not saying that every Christian or every church worships these things. But do you see them as potential dangers?

Are there other idols we should be watching for?