IMAGES:Relligious Icons as Idolatry?
Are Catholic Religious Icons Idolatry? A Biblical, Historical, and Theological Defense by AE JMJ Introduction Catholics are often accused by non-Catholics (including my dear family member who is now a committed converted Baptist😔) of committing idolatry for using statues, icons, and religious images in worship. But such claims overlook key theological distinctions and historical truths. The Catholic Church has always made it clear that religious images are not worshipped; rather, they serve as visible reminders of invisible realities. Scripture, tradition, the saints, Church Fathers, and the Catechism all show that "sacred images are not idolatry,"you but a beautiful expression of the Christian faith. 1. Biblical Context: Graven Images and the True Meaning Exodus 20:4-5 says: > "You shall not make for yourself a graven image... You shall not bow down to them or serve them." This commandment forbids the worship of images as gods not their use for sacred purpose...