We Become What We Worship: A Biblical Theology Of Idolatry (2008) - Plot & Excerpts
Beale has written an excellent theology of idolatry in this book. His main thesis is stated in the title of the book: we become like what we worship. We are by nature worshiping creatures, and we will eventually become like what we worship. If that is God, we will be molded into God's image (which is what we were created to do). But if we worship idols, we will become like idols.Beale demonstrates that this idea about idolatry and worship permeates the Scripture. He looks primarily at Psalm 135:18 and the account of the golden calf in Exodus 32, but shows how this same idea is entwined implicitly all throughout the Old Testament and into the New Testament. He does an excellent job and gives a compelling case for his assertions. He certainly has changed the way I read the Old and New Testament in light of idolatry.Disclaimer: This book is a heavy and academic (yet thoroughly biblical) study of idolatry. As such, there is a lot of deep exegesis and heavy theological groundwork - so it is not primarily directed to laypeople and is not a light read by any means. Beale does try to give some practical application at the end of the book, but even in doing so his insights tend to be more abstract and academic, and he shows himself to be a professor at heart. So if you are willing to spend some time working through his exegesis and theology, then I'd encourage you to read Beale's work. I found this book to be a thorough examination of the theme we become what we worship whether for ruin or restoration throughout scripture. Beale does an excellent job of using passages of scripture to demonstrate the claim that throughout the Bible man becomes like the object of his worship either for ruin or restoration. It provided new viewpoints on some classic passages concerning the idolatry of Israel and I found it an enjoyable read. Some sections seemed to drag as Beale continued to make his points but overall the book was pretty readable while being thorough.
What do You think about We Become What We Worship: A Biblical Theology Of Idolatry (2008)?
This book wrecked my life (In a good way). This is a must read for all, Enjoy!
—bri
