2. Ezekiel 14:3-4
3 "Son of man, these men have set up their
idols in their hearts, and put before them that
which causes them to stumble into iniquity.
Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by
them? 4 Therefore speak to them, and say to
them, 'Thus says the Lord God: "Everyone of
the house of Israel who sets up his idols in his
heart, and puts before him what causes him to
stumble into iniquity, and then comes to the
prophet, I the Lord will answer him who comes,
according to the multitude of his idols
3. The Text
Idol = Anyone or anything which has a higher
priority and place than God.
Men set up idols – in their heart
God's answer – God will answer them
according to their idols
WARNING: God may give you what you ask for
and have your heart set upon.
4. Examples in the Bible
Baalam – wanted to curse Israel
Begged and pleaded
Tried to curse but blessed Israel
Finally – got his desire – Israel in adultery
5. Examples in the Bible
King Saul
Saved King Agag
Sacrficed witout Samuel present
Went to witch of Endor
In one day he lost all his sons, his army, his
kingdom
And he killed himself in dispair
6. Examples in the Bible
Rich Young Ruler
Wanted eternal life
Was obedient to the law of Moses
What else was needed?
Sell possessions and give to the poor
His wealth was his “idol”and he could not let go
8. Doctrinal Application
Once Saved, Always Saved
Keep the 10 commandments
Morality is good enough
Jesus will return to set up His
kingdom
9. Garth Brooks Song
Sometimes I thank God for
unanswered prayers
Remember when you're talkin' to the
man upstairs
That just because he doesn't answer
doesn't mean he don't care
Some of God's greatest gifts are
unanswered prayers