Put Away Strange Gods

The thread through these readings is plain: God will not be honored with divided allegiance. Jacob cannot return to Bethel while idols remain in his house; therefore he commands his household to put away strange gods, to be cleansed, and to change their garments. Novatian preserves the Lord’s call: “I am God, who appeared to you in the place of God, where you anointed for me there the standing stone, and there vowed a vow unto me: now therefore arise, and go forth from this land, and go unto the land of your nativity, and I will be with you.” The promise stands, but it is joined to rising, leaving, and obedience.

This same severity appears elsewhere. Dinah’s defilement does not excuse Simeon and Levi’s deceit and slaughter; zeal for family honor is not the same as righteousness. Isaiah, by going barefoot in humiliation, teaches Judah not to trust in Egypt. Men prefer visible alliances, armed sons, and worldly shelter; yet these become shame when they are chosen against the word of God.

So also in Jerusalem: the Lord enters His city, receives the children’s praise, judges the fruitless tree, cleanses the temple, and exposes the lie of lips that say “Yes” while the feet do not move. Tatian records the son who answered, “Yea, my lord: and went not.” This is the danger for all who praise Christ in the courts of worship but keep idols at home, bargains with sin in secret, and injustice in the marketplace.

Let us therefore go up to Bethel with clean hands. Cast out what competes with God. Trust not in Egypt. Say “Hosanna” with the mouth, and then obey with the body.