Responding to Accusations of Idolatry from Protestant Brothers and Sisters

It is a common point of contention between Catholics and Protestants regarding the practice of using images in worship. Critics from the Protestant side often accuse Catholics of idolatry, basing their claims on selective interpretations of certain Bible verses. This article aims to provide a comprehensive response to these accusations by examining the biblical texts and understanding both the historical and theological context behind the use of images in worship.

Understanding Idolatry

The term 'idol' in biblical contexts refers to 'a representation or symbol of an object of worship.' The Fourth Commandment clearly states: 'Thou shalt not make thee any graven image or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above or that is in the earth beneath or that is in the waters beneath the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them nor serve them.'

Examining the Texts

Protestants often cite Exodus 20:4 and Deuteronomy 5:8-10 to argue against the use of images in worship, claiming that any image-making is a form of idolatry. However, a deeper analysis reveals that not all images are considered idols within Catholic and Christian tradition. Let's review the pertinent texts and explore the nuances:

Exodus 20:4 and Deuteronomy 5:8-10

'4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven 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:'
— Exodus, King James Version (KJV)

'7 Thou shalt have none other gods before me.'
— Deuteronomy, King James Version (KJV)

Exodus 20:4, in particular, forbids the making of images that might lead to worship. The commandment was given before the incarnation of Christ, at a time when it was impossible to depict the unseen God. However, the incarnation of Jesus, as a physical human form, makes it possible to depict him in images.

Images in the Old Testament

The presence of images like the cherubs on the Ark of the Covenant and the 12 lions leading to Solomon's throne challenges the simple interpretation of the commandment. These images were not used in worship but were symbolic representations that had a significant religious and cultural context. Similarly, in early Christianity, images were not used in worship, which raises the question of why their use is suddenly required or expected now.

2 Corinthians 5:6-7 and the Use of Images

'6 For in this we walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.'
— 2 Corinthians, King James Version (KJV)

This verse suggests that images, if used in worship, would not be in accordance with Spirit-led worship but rather with human traditions. The emphasis on 'walking by faith not by sight' implies that images should not be the primary focus of one's faith journey.

Photographs and the Commandment

If a believer were to take a photograph of a loved one and then bow down to it as if it contained the person's essence, this would indeed be a form of idolatry. However, treating a photograph or an art piece as a mere memory with no veneration or worship differing from a piece of paper is not idolatry. This distinction highlights that the interpretation of the commandment must account for context and intention.

Reverence for Saints and Image Worship

Catholics honor the saints because they are valued members of the Body of Christ, their family in the Church. The images of saints are not idols but venerated symbols of prayer and memory. Just as family photographs are used to remember and honor loved ones, images of saints are used to honor and remember holy people who have died but live in Christ. Viewing these images as aids to worship, rather than objects of worship themselves, aligns with the biblical principle of 'walking by faith not by sight.'

Conclusion

While the Bible does prohibit the creation and worship of idols, the title 'idol' must be understood carefully. Not all images are idols, especially if they are used reverentially as means to deepen faith and honor the faithful departed. The use of images in worship, as practiced by Catholics, can be seen as a reasonable and biblical practice, provided they are used as aids to prayer and devotion rather than as objects of worship.

Protestant and Catholic Christians share a common foundation in the Bible, and dialogue on this topic can serve to enrich mutual understanding and foster greater unity in Christ.