12 Bible Verses About Idolatry

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

This article delves into the topic of idolatry and provides twelve powerful Bible verses about idolatry.

The Bible strongly condemns the worship of anything other than God and warns against the dangers of idolatry.

The article also suggests several Bible chapters to read for a deeper understanding of the issue.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that idolatry is a serious offense against God and that we should strive to avoid it at all costs.

Bible verses about idolatry

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about idolatry:

1. Exodus 20:3 – “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”
2. Deuteronomy 5:7 – “Thou shalt have none other gods before me.”
3. 1 Corinthians 10:14 – “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.”
4. 1 John 5:21 – “Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.”
5. Colossians 3:5 – “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.”
6. Isaiah 42:8 – “I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.”

7. Exodus 34:17 – “Thou shalt make thee no molten gods.”
8. Leviticus 19:4 – “Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the Lord your God.”
9. Psalm 115:4-8 – “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat. They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them.”
10. Jeremiah 10:14 – “Every man is brutish in his knowledge: every founder is confounded by the graven image: for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.”
11. Acts 17:29 – “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.”
12. Galatians 5:20 – “Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies.”

What does the Bible say about idolatry?

The Bible strongly condemns idolatry, which is the worship of anything other than God.

It emphasizes that God is the only true God and that worshiping idols is a sin.

The Bible warns against the dangers of idolatry, including its ability to lead people away from God and into spiritual darkness.

It also emphasizes the importance of putting God first in our lives and avoiding anything that might distract us from our relationship with Him.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that idolatry is a serious offense against God and that we should strive to avoid it at all costs.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about idolatry?

1 Kings 12-13: These chapters describe the division of Israel into two kingdoms, Israel and Judah, and the introduction of idol worship by King Jeroboam. The story highlights the dangers of idolatry and the consequences it can have on a nation.

Isaiah 44: This chapter speaks about the foolishness of idol worship and the powerlessness of idols. It emphasizes that only God is worthy of worship and that trusting in anything else is futile.

Jeremiah 10: This chapter speaks about the folly of idol worship and the powerlessness of idols. It emphasizes that only God is worthy of worship and that trusting in anything else is futile.

1 Corinthians 8-10: These chapters discuss the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols and the dangers of participating in idol worship. It emphasizes the importance of staying away from idolatry and the need to put God first in all things.

Revelation 2-3: These chapters contain letters from Jesus to the seven churches in Asia, warning them against idolatry and encouraging them to remain faithful to God. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to God and avoiding the temptation of idol worship.

Ideas and concepts related to idolatry that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Worship: Worship is the act of showing reverence and adoration to a deity or an object. Idolatry involves worshiping idols or images instead of the true God. The Bible warns against worshiping false gods and emphasizes the importance of worshiping the one true God.

2. False prophets: False prophets are individuals who claim to speak for God but actually lead people astray. They often promote idolatry and encourage people to worship false gods. The Bible warns against false prophets and urges people to test their teachings against the Word of God.

3. Covetousness: Covetousness is the desire to possess something that belongs to someone else. Idolatry often involves coveting material possessions or wealth and placing them above God. The Bible warns against covetousness and encourages people to seek first the kingdom of God.

4. Pride: Pride is the excessive belief in one’s own abilities or achievements. Idolatry often involves pride, as people may worship themselves or their own accomplishments instead of God. The Bible warns against pride and encourages humility before God.

5. Sin: Sin is any action or thought that goes against God’s will. Idolatry is considered a sin in the Bible, as it involves placing something or someone above God. The Bible urges people to repent of their sins and turn to God for forgiveness and salvation.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.