The War Against True Worship- Then and Now

Donnis McCoy
May 19
3 min read

Updated: Jun 2

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam…to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.”

— Revelation 2:14 (KJV)

What Is Idolatry and Immoral Worship?

Idolatry is the worship of anything or anyone other than the one true God. It replaces the Creator with the created. Immoral worship introduces sinful practices—such as sexual immorality, violence, or occultism into what is meant to be holy and pure.

Together, this corrupt worship and sinful practices, provokes divine judgment. In Revelation, Jesus rebukes the churches at Pergamos and Thyatira for tolerating teachings that led to idolatry and immorality within the body of Christ.

How Idolatry Affects Us Today

The enemy no longer needs carved images to lead people astray—modern idols are often invisible but deeply entrenched in culture:

Materialism – Chasing wealth, success, and possessions.
Entertainment and Celebrity Culture – Idolizing influencers and placing media over Scripture.
Sexual Immorality – Promoting freedom that opposes God’s design for holiness.
Spiritual Compromise – Accepting New Age practices, universalism, and emotional religion over biblical truth.
Self-Exaltation – Prioritizing personal happiness or identity over surrender to Christ.

Idolatry today is not only cultural—it’s personal. Jesus still walks among His churches (Revelation 2:1), and He is calling His people to purify their worship.

Biblical Examples of Idolatry and Immoral Worship

The Golden Calf (Exodus 32)

◦ Israel created and worshipped a golden idol.

◦ Judgment followed swiftly.

Baal Worship (1 Kings 18; 2 Kings 17)

◦ Involved child sacrifice and temple prostitution.

◦ Elijah challenged the prophets on Mount Carmel.

Asherah Poles and High Places (2 Kings 21:3–7)

◦ Pagan altars and sexual rites led by corrupt kings.

◦ Manasseh provoked God with extreme idolatry.

Corinthian Church (1 Cor. 10:7–8)

◦ Paul warned believers not to fall into the same sins as Israel—idolatry and fornication.

Churches of Pergamos & Thyatira (Revelation 2:14, 20)

◦ Jesus condemned false doctrines that encouraged compromise and sin.

◦ “I gave her space to repent… and she repented not.” (Rev. 2:21)

Case Study: The Fall of the Temple of Diana

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the temple in Ephesus was dedicated to Diana (Artemis) goddess of fertility.
Worship practices included:

◦ Sexual immorality (temple prostitution)

◦ Occult rituals

◦ Orgies and festivals in her honor

In Acts 19, Paul’s gospel message ignited a spiritual conflict so intense that idol-makers rioted in fear of losing business. The chant, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” echoed their desperation to preserve a dying system.

The Result?

The temple was destroyed in 262 A.D. by invaders and never rebuilt.
Its ruins remain as a monument to the temporary power of false religion and the eternal reign of Jesus Christ.

Personal Reflection & Application

1. What idols have subtly taken root in your life?

2. Are there areas where cultural compromise has polluted your worship?

3. Is Jesus still your first love (Revelation 2:4)?

Action Steps for the Church Today