Is it a good thing to share the wise sayings of a Christian man or woman? The quick answer is yes; many Holy Spirit-filled men and women of God have much wisdom and insight from the Lord. Therefore, it can be very beneficial when you read a book they wrote, or quote they have stated to bring insight to the wisdom and instruction of the Lord. For example, take Solomon’s wisdom shared in the book of Proverbs. In this way, He has instructed the world through the wisdom given to Him by the Lord.
Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching. When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments and live.” Proverbs 4:1-4
But often, people praise the words of the famous scholars of old or the popular ones of this age as well so that they may appear wise. Those who quote the wise man may initially have good intentions, but it doesn’t always end that way. Human nature tends to love the praise of men; if you are not careful, you may drift into idol worship and become overcome with pride. Saying in your heart, “Look who I agree with.”
On the surface, it seems innocent and good, but God sees the heart. It could be a message that struck you as being profound. But when you post night and day praising the words of men instead of God, you have made them into an idol for worship.
God commands that we worship Him only. Besides, any wisdom men have comes from God. So, in this case, the only one that deserves to be placed on a pedestal and worthy of all praise is Jesus Christ, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit. So, if you quote someone’s wise saying, ensure God gets the glory.
For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of His saints. Proverbs 2:6-8
I have seen many start groups joining others to share the quotes of Mr. Godly Christian Man. I understand that many believers believe this is good, but it is not when the main focus is on man instead of God. It quickly becomes a slippery slope; once you start praising man’s word over God’s Word, you may forget where they obtained such wisdom.
No matter how experienced you are, everyone must consider their ways and heed this warning against idolatry. How do you know when it has shifted from an innocent share to obsession? There are definitely red flags that can warn you of this so that you may not fall into this sin yourself.
Indeed, sin is the red flag. They could be pride, arrogance, haughtiness, anger, sarcasticness, offense, etc. You may find yourself believing one man is greater than another. Or what commonly happens is you feel you are better than others because you agree with a famous man.
I have even witnessed many become angry and offended because something else from God’s Word was posted on the page dedicated to a religious man. For example, they may say, “Why are you sharing that other guy’s words on this group,” or “Why would you share a post about the Gospel on here.” “We only share quotes from this man’s here.”
Please understand God hates idol worship. He is God, and He gives His glory to no one else. Therefore, we should not praise man but God. Do not reject God for the praise of men. To reject Him is a deadly mistake that can lead to Hell if there is no repentance. You may not be bowing down to a wooden statue, but idolizing anyone over God is partaking in idol worship. God sees it as the same.
Assemble yourselves and come; draw near together, you survivors of the nations! They have no knowledge who carry about their wooden idols and keep on praying to a god that cannot save. Declare and present your case; let them take counsel together! Who told this long ago? Who declared it of old? Was it not I, the LORD? And there is no other god besides me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none besides me. Isaiah 45:20-21
Put to death, therefore, what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these, the wrath of God is coming. Colossians 3:5-6
In God’s eyes, worshipping a sports player, movie star, politician, or preacher is the same as bowing down to a rock. Therefore, God has commanded that you should not worship anyone or anything except for Him.
“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. “You shall have no other gods before me.” “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.
You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments. Exodus 20:2-6
It is not good to idolize anything other than God. It is actually dangerous to worship others, like walking on a tight wire or traversing a steep, icy mountainside. Idolatry is like blinding yourself. You may find yourself following a false teacher to your demise. It can lead to deadly pitfalls and traps of the devil that lead to death and Hell. All it takes is one veer from the truth to make it a lie.
God has commanded all mankind to turn from all forms of sin, especially idolatry. He has called all to repent and turn to God so that He may save them. He desires to forgive their sins because God knows what is good and what is best.
You should think twice about honoring others and quoting their words too often. Check your heart and true intentions that you are giving God the glory, not men. It is good to learn from the godly and anointed servant of the Lord. But everything must be judged by the Word of the Lord. If you have been worshipping others, turn and repent. Then, follow the Lord, asking for His forgiveness and guidance. He will not forsake those who humble themselves to serve Him by faith and truth.
The Soul Sower 