Examples of modern idolatry and do I worry people will idolize me?

In light of the biblical teaching that covetousness is idolatry I am deeply aware of how relevant this issue is for my life. My desires can pull me away from God. My desires, unchecked, can become idolatry.
My website BibleThinker.org

[@Vitamortis.]

great answers. I also spend more time using Christian resources online than actually praying and reading the Bible. I want to change this. i think simply reading the Scriptures is more important than anything else apart from prayer.

[@Loverbwoy2010]

Agreed I don't read my Bible enough

[@lklein1804]

I'm somewhat guilty too BUT I found a way ... my eyes are always SUPER tired from working on computer all day ... so ive been "listening" to the Bible... not reading ... at night when i go to bed ... I play it ALL night long ... it's super comforting and I do learn something new or gain a deeper understanding.... quite often ... YUP using my phone on my nightstand

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

The difference is... I can listen to people like Mike Winger while I work and do other things! It's OK to spend "more time" on this stuff if it's time you were gonna spend doing something else, anyway.

[@casualchatwithamanda5996]

Yes me too! I really want to get over that and know God for myself and not just what ( people I respect and smart people ) tell me who God is. We need to be doing the work ourselves. My goal is to work through the book of Psalms this year. I feel like one psalms a day it isnt over whelming and it's pleasant book to read so I won't get discouraged and quit.

[@josephbrandenburg4373]

@@casualchatwithamanda5996 just wait till you get to day 119 🤣

[@bonniec1765]

I haven't been a Christian for a full year yet but I appreciate KZbin pastors like Mike and a few others. It's because of these teachers that I now read my Bible, study and pray daily that I'm growing to know and trust in God. Reading my Bible was hard at first because I didn't understand it. Mike's teaching has helped SO much that I can now actually read instead of just listening. I am thankful for this channel

[@teej0813]

This is really encouraging, Bonnie. Welcome to the family. I remember being a new Christian and being confused when reading the Bible too. Thankfully, we have Mike and others to help us understand what we read. Have you watched The Chosen yet? It's a biblically based TV show about Jesus and his disciples. Like Pastor Mike, The Chosen helps me understand Jesus' teaching in the context of his Jewish heritage. Highly recommended.

[@bonniec1765]

@@teej0813 I do watch The Chosen. There are so many who criticize it and say it's unbiblical but I don't focus on what's going on around the actual story. The life of Jesus. I'm still on season 1. Going slowly because I can't make it thru an episode without crying. The Bible, the story of Jesus, for a new Christian, it's all so emotion filled and overwhelming at times.

[@teej0813]

@@bonniec1765 I'm glad you found The Chosen, Bonnie. And I'm glad you're finding it meaningful. My reaction to it is similar to yours. Although I've been a Christian and attended churches for 30+ years, I wasn't really taught much about the Jewishness of Jesus and the disciples. I've learned much from the show about the culture and how Jesus' listeners would have understood his teachings. And I've read (or listened to) the bible cover-to-cover a dozen times, so I think I have a pretty good understanding of who God is and what he wants from us. I have yet to see anything in The Chosen that is contrary to Jesus' teachings.

[@giftgab]

Hi there Bonnie. I also have just started my own Christian bible teaching channel, so if you were interested, feel free to check out some of my content, no pressure of course, just trying to help you as a fairly new Christian. I know how hard it can be to understand the bible when you're first starting out. ✝🙂

[@bonniec1765]

@@giftgab I would love to check out your channel. How do I do this?

[@e.l.243]

"Our phone is soaking up our time." So well said.

[@paulajames6149]

I grew up having quite a difficult time with reading comprehension. I do not learn through books but through hearing and doing. I did read the Bible daily for 20 yrs. Now I don’t read as much but watch tons of Christian you tubers. I agree that reading vs watching should not be pinned against each other. I find that watching videos help enhance my understanding of the scriptures, and it gives me context. It increases my love for God and His word.

[@adammw1646]

Is all about knowledge of God. How u increase your knowledge for me I think is not the issues . Jus one have to be careful not bein mislead on KZbin

[@dr.snipes9410]

You cab go straight to the Bible by listening to audio Bibles

[@paulajames6149]

I have learned more about the Bible in the 3 yrs of watching youtube than the 20 years of daily reading. Videos is not a substitution to reading but it is helpful.

[@samuelbarns118]

@@dr.snipes9410 That can certainly be a great resource, but for some people, the lack of a visual element makes it hard to concentrate and really engage with the material. That's where videos can be a huge help. One thing I would recommend though, to anyone struggling with that, is to try using an audio version and following along with a text version. The two elements together can help a lot with actually taking it in.

[@samuelbarns118]

@P¡nned_by Mike Winger Fake account. Stop spamming!

[@jackiefields1607]

I have been a Bible teacher for over 50 years so I think I have a basic understanding of scripture. However, I really appreciate the added understanding that I get from listening to Mike Winger. I usually listen while I have my second cup of coffee or while I do a household task. Very practical and time efficient. It’s a wonderful, enriching form of Bible study, not a replacement. I’m a better Bible teacher because of it. I do sometimes find that your take on a passage is different from mine. That’s a great reminder that you’re not perfect and that I should consider what you say,not swallow it whole. :) Thanks for all the time and effort that you put into your work!

[@lucidcross8282]

@P¡nned_by Mike Winger No one is gonna fall for that. Literal Wolf in sheep's clothing.

[@britzel71]

I appreciate what you wrote. I mean no disrespect but I had to add that at least with Mike there's been times when after he stated something I previously wouldn't have agreed with I listened and read the Bible verse in question and realized 'I' had it wrong. To be honest I can't think of a time when he hasn't been spot on biblically speaking. I do however really appreciate like I said your comment because I've listened to other pastors on YT and found what they're saying to be false or share a different belief and have struggled with whether to listen to them at all. You helped me remember their human too and not to throw the baby out with the water unless obviously it's biblically incorrect rather than a view I hope this made sense.

[@Chris_Sheridan]

Mike Winger is just another false prophet ..

[@lofoten2223]

I have a Bible beside me while watching youtube, and i like to look up passages when they are mentioned.

[@nickt.7305]

KZbin channels, like Mike’s, are a tremendous resource. View them as a study tool, an online class, that we didn’t have years ago. Like Mike said, read the scriptures that he references and analyze thoughtfully just as you would while listening to a sermon. Thankful for Mike, and others, that are providing us with wonderful content. Listening to biblical content on your phone is truly the best use of your phone.

[@Ben-kh7wh]

Can you tell me why Mike has more videos on KZbin vs episodes on his podcast. I want to listen to his podcast but afraid im missing content if I only listen to the podcast vs watching him on youtube

[@JayVal90]

I think it’s very important what you do to mention your own limitations and constantly refer to the Bible as the source. It helps remind me that I’m just hearing a vessel of Scripture, not a Great Bible Thinker(TM).

[@kc-jv1rn]

This

[@debrasmith4675]

Modern day idolatry: Worshipping the works of your own hands and body.

[@Weissguys6]

I listen to biblical teaching on KZbin all day. What you said about that limiting my prayer was convicting and I thank you for that. No worries about you becoming an idol. I see you as my brother in Christ. 🙏

[@giftgab]

Hi there Karen. Just letting you know that I started my own bible teaching KZbin channel around six weeks ago and I also love @mikewinger. Just thought you might be interested in checking out some of my teachings, but no pressure of course. Cheers Justin. ✝🙂

[@MrSlipperycoke]

I see you as a brother in Christ. I appreciate all the time you spend speaking about God. Thank you for spreading love and sharing your gift.

[@FRN2013]

Amen. One of the things preachers do to seek to be on that pedestal is to demand to be called by a title. But we _never_ see such titles used in the Bible. _No one_ ever said "Pastor Peter" or "Apostle Paul" or "Evangelist Philip" or "Reverend James" when talking to these leaders. It's interesting that _all_ of the leaders who demand titles will sometimes refer to the Son of God as simply "Jesus," with no title. Obviously it's not wrong to say "Jesus" with no title--the Bible does it--so even more so it not wrong to call a preacher by his first name only.

[@katmcneff9326]

I really appreciate you Mike. Thanks for being real and using your gifts. I am blessed by you.

[@marctheriault]

Don’t worry Mike. There are some of us that are being “baby bear”; not thinking too highly, nor too lowly about you, what we’re thinking is just right. And I credit you for that. You constantly remind us to check scripture ourselves to see if your analysis is on track, and that you yourself let us know when you’re giving us your best guess when discussing questions that won’t be fully answered until we’re in heaven and “know fully.” Keep on truckin’, brother Mike! 😎

[@Jazzatic2011]

I like how you mentioned you don’t honestly know what to do if someone else were to idolize you. I think the most you can do, and in part did, is be like the angel in revelations who corrects John when he was going to bow down? Or give praise or whatever, and he stops him. He then says I’m just a servant like you. Worship God.

[@Jhasonsmith]

Enjoyed this short video and loved what you had to say, mike. Keep on running, bro!

[@SpaceCadet4Jesus]

It's my experience that God's word read out loud (by yourself, alone) cleanses, instructs and strengthens in that no other media activity can emulate. I've felt God's power and blessing for reading his word that no other biblical activity can match. Prayer comes immediately next. Online videos, tapes, debates, classes and study materials take a far distant backseat. Don't neglect the written word, you grow faster by staying in it.

[@dawnlauwrens3983]

Thank you for pointing out what actual idolatry is. I do spend a lot of time on KZbin, with reading scripture...I must say that some channels, like yours, has actually helped me to understand scripture better and helped me in understanding WOF and real faith, discernment and so on. I must confess, I need to spend more time praying, especially now, as some things really feel hopeless. Told a friend the other day we don't live by feelings, but by faith in God, but today my feelings are really getting in the way 😞 Thanx for these points brother in Christ. I appreciate what you are doing. And no, I really do don't pick up any vibes that you want us to look up to you...thanx for your humility and honesty. Please keep me in your prayers 🙏

[@JoyCrossbridge]

This is exactly why I will always love Mike Winger, the greatest Bible Thinker and Teacher I have! God bless you, my treasured Brother Christ! I pray I will meet you and be able to treat you Line a “normal” person one day on this side of eternity, but if not, I’ll be looking for you on the other side for a high five! 🙌

[@MonLeeMane]

Brother Mike, I just want you to know that I think of you exactly how you present yourself - not too highly, and not too lowly, and I would be glad to just sit down and talk if we met in real life. I’m happy being blessed in profound ways by the gifts of the simplest, most normal people, and to have the opportunity to bless them with my gifts.

[@BobbyCannon]

This video is why I continue to listen to you, @MikeWinger. I feel the same way. No matter how much I like someone, or someone likes me, we are all just brother and sisters in Christ. He is the one that should get all the glory!

[@BobbyCannon]

@P¡nned_by Mike Winger seriously... do you really think that people think you are Mike? Lame...

[@thejyichannel]

Dear Mike, I can only hope and pray that my comment does not escape you. You have my sincere appreciation for all the time you have spent in research. By the way, speaking only of myself, you and I don't have to worry about my making you into an idol and hence falling into idolatry. I see you as the coolest brother I could ever wish to have. And you definitely put out those clean "I'm just your brother vibes". I send you a warm and holy, sisterly embrace. God bless you and your beloved wife and your precious cat. Peace and Love my brother. It would be awesome if I could be the coolest sister in the Lord you ever had. Once again, i thank you for all of your giving. I Praise God for all that He is doing through you. Ciao ciao for now.

[@qesheth2]

Mike I have to say, when I was hurt by a church, it was through your content I grew as a Christian God used it in my life, I struggle reading. I also handwind guitar pickups and love to wind them while listening to a series like Jesus in the Old testament. So thank you for being our brother in Christ and being obedient it really does help. I found your content as a hurt relatively new believer, looking for a biblical way to choose a church to call home. Thank you for helping me find the right group of believer's to grow in Christ with

[@danzo8372]

These answers are really good. Thank you🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@cyruskim2364]

Keep up the good work Pastor Mike..God bless

[@dtjreal]

This was a fantastic explanation of the parallel between ancient and modern idolatry. Thank you Mike

[@gothicballerinayeshua22]

I think you are right that people should not idolize or worship you. However I have nothing but love and respect for you. Your teaching has and does help me to understand the Bible a lot! I’m not able to go to church right now so I am so thankful that I have someone that I can fully trust for biblical teaching. Thank You for what you do pastor Mike. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! Happy New Year!

[@benjaminwatt2436]

Its great that you have been helped but do consider how constant praise effects a pastor. I had a pastor friend who told me he stopped preaching because he got constant praise and found it very negatively affected him and he found himself becoming conceited

[@Chris_Sheridan]

If you celebrate Christmas (and Easter) you're already lost - they're pagan customs - nothing to do with the bible. Christians don't celebrate birthdays.

[@joeeldred4938]

! Thank you, Mike, for reminding me of what the Holy Spirit taught me today/ Seriously Thank you! What an amazing thing that you covered this today.

[@rowanmaxwell9199]

I think the most common form of idolatry these days is people calling themselves Christian but coming up with their own god based on their own preferences/feeling, then picking and choosing bible verses and interpretations to support these.

[@yvettemena2024]

I think you're pretty honest about who you are and I do really appreciate your ministry, brother Mike. 🙂

[@ExNihiloComesNothing]

What a brother! Merry Christmas, Mike.

[@justinashley9529]

Brother mike we love you and thank you .

[@AaronGrosch29]

Prayer as the empty space filler is so true! Thank you for that reminder.

[@jontoland3491]

You're a good brother. I appreciate the work you do. Thanks Mike

[@LetTalesBeTold]

Thank you for pointing out the coinciding of covetousness as idolatry along with “traditional” idol worship. I’ve been guilty of both (not with carved idols but with relationships, expecting things from others that I should have been running to God for), and God had to pretty much up and break me so I could see that my dependence and devotion is only well spent when it is spent on Him. I’ve learned that if there’s something- even a good, holy thing- that I can’t bear the thought of parting with, even if God tells me to “just because” (as I ought to trust His leadership), then I shouldn’t sacrifice anything for that thing, but rather sacrifice that thing for the Lord.

[@tuedaytalkswithtitus]

Love it working on a similar episode!

[@eclipsesonic]

Really good answer, Mike. I think a way perhaps certain people can stop idolising you is if they listen to other Bible teachers and scholars, not just you, as some of these people may be listening to just what you're saying and believing everything that they're hearing, instead of opening up to what other people in the body of Christ has to say about something. For me personally, I've watched a lot of your content, because I love listening to your passion for teaching God's Word and secondly, I rarely disagree with what you've said in any of your content, so we both have a lot of common ground I believe, but at the same time, I do listen to plenty of other biblically solid Christian channels and I'm sure you recommend people do the same.

[@teej0813]

Excellent commentary, Pastor. Thank you for all you do.

[@chadg6874]

FWIW, I don't think of you too highly and definitely not too lowly. I do appreciate very much your level of depth and clarity, and can tell you sincerely try to teach what the Bible really says. My mind is getting better and better at the motto you use on your channel, to learn to think biblically about everything. When I first got saved, I couldn't intellectually understand the Bible well but trusted God as He showed me the scripture. But I think also understanding it intellectually goes hand in hand with understanding it spiritually. And I think it's pretty apparent God's using you to help people be better prepared in both ways as they read and learn the Bible better. I'm still quite flawed but, just for example... I feel like after becoming Christian I could just sense that God was molding me into a wiser and gentler person, and I just knew that was a good thing.. I read the scripture which confirms thoughts like these, and I often feel like the Holy Spirit guides me to the understanding and I know it's true of what I'm feeling or perceiving is what's written in there. But that's where the studying part comes in. We don't want to be tricked into error because feelings aren't always accurate, as I learn to know Jesus better, I am still a flawed person who sins and tries not to but still does, and sometimes don't even know where I'm sinning, and my feelings reflect that I believe. So the intellectual part, and the wisdom, and learning from and verifying good teaching helps to kind of make sure that I'm not in error because of my own flaws as sinner. I've started rambling, sorry 😂 trying to get to my point. TL;DR you da man but don't let it get to your head, which I know it won't, bc you da man! 😂 God bless you Mike, He's been using your teaching to help me in some great ways and I try to pay it forward what I've learned whenever it seems like God's will. He's been setting up some scenarios with people where I can use what I've been learning to help them hopefully. I love how your goal seems to be that people get clarity intellectually on the Bible, without just jumping to conclusions or taking a verse or two out of context. Thank you brother!

[@icecoolguita]

Thank you for the clear explanation on idolatry.

[@orvalstuckemeyer127]

Honestly, Mike, I would simply love to worship along side you as a brother in Christ!

[@ancientegyptandthebible]

Nicely said and put in its proper Biblical perspective and context. 👍👍

[@ancientegyptandthebible]

@P¡nned_by Mike Winger nice try, bot.

[@TheAmberHarvey]

This answer was so helpful! I have dyslexia and often feel guilty for listening to my Bible app (opposed to reading it) and watching Christian content on youtube. I spend less time actually reading my Bible because I feel like I get more out of hearing the words spoken. This makes me feel better! I do want to make more time for prayer though!

[@PM-hh9ur]

Many in the New Testament Church couldn’t read and came to Sunday gatherings to LISTEN to someone reading what would later become the New Testament. No shame there at all.

[@saintejeannedarc9460]

@@PM-hh9ur That is such an excellent point.

[@deantodd8103]

The Bible invites us to "study" to show ourselves approved to God. It doesn't specify reading it. The only advantage to reading it for yourself is that we tend to remember what we see more quickly and thoroughly than what we hear. But overall, however you meditate on Scripture, the important point is that you do. 😊

[@PM-hh9ur]

@@deantodd8103 I agree with you. It seems there are advantages to both listening AND reading the Bible, and some people learn best by audio and others through hands-on reading and highlighting…

[@dantosinferne]

If it helps, remember that for most of history, the average person didn't even know how to read! They learned of The Word through oral teachings, not books. It's a very modern gift that bibles are so freely available. God would care that you were engaging with His Word, not whether you gleaned it from a physical book. And that's exactly what you're doing!

[@Nothinmuch28]

Awesome video Mike!

[@michellemybelle9591]

RCC does worship saints! Just had this conversation with my BIL. He said we are NOT all saints. I said the Bible says those of us that ARE christinas are. He rolled his eyes and said you think you are as good as them. I said yes, they are sinners just like us! He didn't like that.

[@lisamarie6611]

Pray His will not our will EVER! This is how I came to love all things regardless! You my idol... lololo your just another brother whom spills over truth!

[@3sidesgod]

Keep running into your purpose from all angles amen!!

[@NoBokee]

I understand you... I try not to place a specific activity as idolatry but simply one should not prioritize anything above God. Even one's self...

[@nancygoodwin6989]

this is excellent, Mike. something we are all struggling to deal with and be balanced. how does the Holy Spirit get through all the traffic? “the good is the enemy of the best.”

[@amask99]

As a Catholic, some of us do view the saints in a wrong way. I believe it's an overall misconception about the purpose of prayer. Even when we pray for certain thigs, we know we may not receive it as God might have something greater for us. I encourage you all to look into the Catholic Church's history and teachings, that's where the key to salvation is

[@patricktassell7306]

We should all praise and glorify God above any man. But you and truth tellers who hold the line against popular and flashy self serving, ear tickling, money.loving preachers are worth your weight in gold. Keep humble and let people like me praise you!

[@atekle1382]

modern-day idolatry is a constant message that we are not good enough until we attain xyz. This makes people especially women vulnerable and opens you up to suffering

[@billbrock8547]

I've watched many of your videos. I think you're a nice guy: intelligent and sincere. And I can see where many of those under the pernicious influence of naked belief might idolize you. You've plotted a tricky course for youself.

[@Gospelogian]

Great question! And great answer: “replacing God with something you love more” - May God help us not to be idolaters! 🙏

[@SpielbergMichael]

In case anyone finds this helpful or is interested in praying for our Christian ministries/leaders/shepherds/evangelists/apologists like Mike Winger: 16 prayer points you can pray for them: 1 You can pray that they will always have a good walk with God (that they will not forget their first love), that God will bless their daily private Bible reading and prayer life, and that they will have good sound doctrine. 2 You can pray that they will be full of the Holy Spirit and that God will bless their ministries so that many more people will come to faith in Jesus for God’s glory, and that they will feed God’s sheep and disciple them properly. 3 You can pray that they will be humble, that they will remember how many Christian leaders in the past have fallen, and that they will have a very healthy fear of the Lord. 4 You can pray that God will protect them and the ministry God has given them from: Pride Love of fame Love of money Desire for the approval of people rather than the approval of God Being worried about offending people Compromising God’s Word Sexual temptation Demonic attacks Persecution (from outside the Church and inside the Church) 5 You can pray for their PHYSICAL HEALTH and that God will heal all their health problems. 6 You can pray for their MENTAL HEALTH. Pastors and Christian workers often have stress and battle discouragement and depression. Please God touch them and heal them of all mental and emotional problems and distress. They can also sometimes be hurt by the people they serve or by other Christian leaders - so we can pray that this won’t happen but that if it does that God will heal these wounds and strengthen His servants to forgive each other and that God will restore unity for His Glory. 7 You can pray that God will bless and protect their families. Satan often attacks Christian workers by attacking their loved ones. So you can pray that their family members will all have a good walk with God, have good sound doctrine, that God will protect them all from demonic attacks, that God will also bless and protect their physical and mental health, heal them of all infirmities, and that God will bless all their family relationships so that there is peace and love in their families. You can pray that God especially blesses and protects all areas and parts of their marriages, so that they will not be tempted to look elsewhere. Also please God bless their marriages especially so that they can be a model and example for other Christians. 8 You can pray that God will abundantly bless and protect the finances of the ministries and also the personal finances of God’s servants (especially finances needed for health or medical expenses). You can pray that they always have abundant finances so that they can always do every good work God wants them to do. 9 You can pray that God blesses and protects the relationships between Christian co-workers in ministries - so that no jealousy or strife or bitterness takes root. That they will all have Christian unity and that their focus will be on God getting all the glory and rejoice in any and all work for God. 10 You can pray that God prevents any technical or logistical or legal or any type of problems for their ministry, but if they have any such issues/problems that God will help them resolve/fix and totally solve and remove these problems. 11 If it’s an internet (e.g. KZbin) ministry you can pray that God will help the videos spread on those platforms and get many views and that God will use the videos to bring many people to repentance and faith in Jesus. 12 You can pray that God will help Christian leaders be good shepherds of Jesus’ sheep and continue to feed Jesus’ sheep, and that they will not only convert people, but also disciple new converts so that they can grow and develop and mature in a healthy and supported way. 13 You can pray that God will give them the heart of a servant. 14 You can pray that God gives them wisdom and helps them and powerfully guides them when making all decisions and plans. 15 You can pray that if they make mistakes or sin that God will grant them humility and repentance and restore them. 16 You can pray that more Christians will pray consistently for Christian leaders/pastors/shepherds/workers/ministries. *********************** You could make a list of pastors/ministries you want to support and pray for them regularly. Jesus said: “ when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6

[@SpielbergMichael]

14 more BIBLICAL prayer points for praying for the LOST: Jesus and Paul actually told us specifically what to pray for on several occasions: 1 “pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified” 2 Thessalonians 3:1 ------- 2 Jesus said we should pray for more labourers. "Then Jesus said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore PRAY earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”" Matthew 9:37-38 Jesus said: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore PRAT earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." Luke 10:2 ------- 3 We can pray for more opportunities to share the Gospel, and for God to open more doors for effective work: "pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains." Colossians 4:3 “because a great door for effective work has opened to me” 1 Corinthians 16:9 ------------------------- 4 We can pray that God will give us all the right words to say. "Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel," Ephesians 6:19 ------- 5 We can pray that God will give all Christians the boldness to share the gospel. "Lord... grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness... And when they had prayed... they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness." Acts 4:29-31 ------------------------ 6 We can pray that Christians will speak boldly RELYING ON THE LORD: “they spent a long time there speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord” Acts 14:3 ------------- 7 We can pray for God to draw more people to Jesus and to grant more people to come to Jesus. Jesus said: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them" John 6:44 Jesus said: “No one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father.” John 6:65 -------------------------- 8 We can pray that God will REVEAL the reality and truth about Jesus to more people. "Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not REVEALED to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in Heaven." Matthew 16:16-17 "At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and REVEALED them to little children." Matthew 11:25 --------------------------- 9 We can pray that God will teach more people. Jesus said: "It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him COMES TO ME." John 6:45 -------------------------- 10 We can pray that God will open more hearts to attend to His message. "The Lord opened her heart to attend to the things being spoken by Paul." Acts 16:14 ------------------------- 11 We can pray that God will open more eyes to see and open ears to hear so that they would turn to God and God would heal them. Jesus said: "I send thee (Paul), TO OPEN THEIR EYES, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me." Acts 26:17-18 “while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand….. OTHERWISE THEY MIGHT SEE WITH THEIR EYES, HEAR WITH THEIR EARS, UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART, AND RETURN, AND I WOULD HEAL THEM.’ But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear.” Matthew 13:13…16 “The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The Lord has made both of them.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭20:12‬ “Yet to this day the Lord has not given you a heart to know, nor eyes to see, nor ears to hear.” ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭29:4‬ ---------- 12 We can pray that God in his mercy and generosity will bring more prisoners out of spiritual dungeon into the freedom and light of Jesus Christ. “proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” Luke 4:18 “a light to the nations, To open blind eyes, To bring out prisoners from the dungeon And those who dwell in darkness from the prison.” Isaiah 42:7 ---------- 13 We can pray that God will grant more people repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth: “in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth” 2 Timothy 2:25 --------- 14 We can pray that new converts/disciples will find/be guided to/or have guided to them good Christian teachers who can help to disciple them correctly in the way, so that they can mature as God wants them to: just as God provided Philip to teach the Ethiopian so that the Ethiopian could understand what God wanted him to understand in Acts 8:26-40, or as God provided Priscilla and Aquila to teach Apollos in Acts 18:24-26 or as God provided Paul to some disciples in Ephesus who lacked knowledge in Acts 19:1-5 AND: We can rejoice, thank and praise God in our prayers for His Holy Spirit who guides all genuine new converts/disciples into all truth: “when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL THE TRUTH; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.” John 16:13-14 --------- 15 We can pray that we will have more of God's love in our hearts for the lost so that we will not be afraid to share the Gospel, but that God's love in us will override any fears and make it automatic that we share the gospel in love. If there was a frozen lake, you wouldn't want to go swimming in it. But if a small child fell in, you would automatically dive in to save them. We can pray for love that will cause us to act. ------------------------- "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2 Jesus told us multiple times throughout Scripture to watch and pray always.

[@Derek_Baumgartner]

Thanks for this!

[@Outsiders5135]

It is remarkable that so many brothers and sisters around the world are going through something similar in their prayer life (Tim Mackie, Itiel Arroyo, many locar churches in my country Mexico and now this channel) This may be a time of great darkness (confusion, lack of manifest clarity) but God has a plan for this time as we are drawn to trust God's character, reputation, and honoring what he has done in our lives previously. My advide to my brother Mike, who has helped me without knowing so many times before, is to keep engaged in a community that knows him personally and open channels of communication where his flaws ar more apparent, like a Facebook page, so himself and others are more aware of his flaws. I know this is hard but I say it in love because we are all striving towards an impossible ideal. Only in Jesus we are saved and to Him we must look upon. Blessings

[@Outsiders5135]

I agree! I misspoke, it IS POSSIBLE for God. I only meant it is really hard for us humans to never fail and we have all failed except for Jesus. Who is towards whom we strive, who we want to be like, our ideal.

[@pinkroses135]

That cell phone bit is a really good point

[@slawing9757]

Yes, great answer. God had been drawing me closer to Him. Sometimes we must strongly resist the temptation to seek love in the wrong place before we can realize the deepest love that comes only from God. I have found that it is better to pray for those other people that we truly love, especially for their salvation, and that their relationship w/ God grows stronger (Ephesians 1:15-23; 3:14-21) rather than seek intimate relationships (this includes emotional affairs) with them, which is the agape love of God flowing through us, as it is God's will that all mankind be saved.

[@lorriepeek5636]

Im not a reader. Utube has actually brought me closer to Jesus. It has opened my eyes and has me wanting more. I have alot of respect for Mike. But i only worship Jesus.

[@tanjasmit7535]

Well explained and very well said!! 🇿🇦

[@bellalogan414]

I think you're great - you have re-inspired me to continue bible study. I am grateful I was led to your channel. My church has forgotten God and instead is busy being "woke". Nice to get back to basics. What in the world happened to your thumb? Hope it heals quickly !

[@elizabethh6638]

I think it is time for you to find a new church. I hope you find one that focuses on our Lord Jesus. God bless.

[@bellalogan414]

@DiscipleDave DotCom Well I won't be led down a dark path. I think he's great - my opinion. You don't have to agree. Of course it was God who led me to the channel. Relax

[@moondust8053]

Thank you Sir.

[@jonathanvancura2080]

I like you ministry Pastor Mike Winger, because you "steel man" you do your best to protect us from your own interpretation/bias by providing the best arguments you have found on opposing views so you and your viewers can be objective. I'm curious if you know other KZbinrs/ authors that do this also with high fidelity?

[@waxworse]

Great channel!

[@3sidesgod]

Keep doing god work amen!!

[@threearrows2248]

Thanks Mike. I see you as a very educated and experienced brother in Christ. I have to say, your answer made me realize that, looking back at my first pastor at an unbiblical church, he put himself on a pedestal. And our pastor for the past two years at our very healthy, biblical church, feels like a brother in Christ, his wife is my sister in Christ. His kids are family, the whole church is family, they have been since the beginning. That's a really important thing to look for when evaluating the health of a church.

[@Chris_Sheridan]

.. the health of a 'church' depends on its adherence to scripture and obedience to the head of the Christian congregation - Jesus Christ. - 1 Corinthians 11:3 The vast majority of the churches of Christendom are not complying with Jesus' command to preach 'the good news of the kingdom' and make disciples. - Matthew 28:19 & 20 Mark 13:10 Matthew 24:14

[@Chris_Sheridan]

Mike Winger is an apostate ..

[@squigmugz6355]

Love you Brother :)

[@aaaaaaaaaaaaaaa897]

I also hung out at an Hare Krishna temple a lot for about a month learning about that and I struggled with worshiping one god but there’s other gods that other people worship. I had it in my heart that there was one true god so I saw it as I’m worshiping the one god and they’re worshiping other gods and that’s okay for whatever reason for my god, and then later I realized Krishna is the god of love and I wasn’t worshiping the one god, but there’s also other gods, I was worshiping one of the gods of an entire system of gods. I’m so thankful I learned the truth of the one true god and wasn’t too attracted and attached to all that nonsense.

[@fernandojrapodaca]

Thank you sir! This really makes my definition of modern day idolatry. “And we know that we are of God” and the whole world lieth in wickedness(sin, unrighteousness towards God) and we know that the Son of God is come and hath given us and understanding that we may know him that is true and we are in him that is true even in his Son JESUS CHRIST “This is the tru God” and eternal life( all other is idolatry) little children keep yourselves from Idols AMEN!!!

[@gabriellameattray9778]

Wow. I've never thought of idolatry in this way.

[@dereall4919]

this was good, I was hoping you would touch on on modern day idols in general even briefly. I know you said anything we replace with God but how can we tell when our phone is and idol or our passions?

[@Nit5ua]

Beyond this, I also think that being enamoured by and unconsciously worshiping a supposed MOG most fits into this category. Come to Africa, the adherents of most pentecostal churches practically are guilty of this and sadly, their pastors/leaders lap up these adulations with glee albeit claiming that they never really requested for such.

[@wordscrafter]

I think of you as one of my professors, because your videos are like a study course and I love them. My personal concern is, I work full time and, when my brain is fairly clear, I make cards to sell for rescues ( I keep 0% of the money). My 'Bible' time is usually with you or Alan Parr or Alisa or someone. My main prayer time is in my car on the way to work. I have a hard time focusing anymore. Is that idolatry? Using my clear time on basically a hobby? You can be brutal, I can take it.

[@mrzukunft]

As Matthew 4:4 states: 'Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’"' Therefore I am personally concerned when I don't read the Bible regularly; I think of it as bread or food, which we need on a daily basis. But you're not the only one struggling to get quality Bible time: I barely manage to read a few short chapters a day (I'm lazy lol). Yet I am strongly convicted that reading the Bible is essential since it can really feed your spirit and put the flesh to death thanks to the Word. But follow the Holy Spirit's lead, not mine.

[@Chris_Sheridan]

James chapters 1 & 2 'faith without works is dead' Genuine Christianity produces 'fruitage' - John 15 The vast majority of self-professed 'Christians' have no 'fruitage' - the spirit is not there .. - Matthew 7:21-23

[@gerhardus6596]

Hi Mike. Do you know of the Urantia Book? Also the second 8th week ministries? Had some encounters with the S8W specifically. Both contradicting the Scriptures and not Christian, but under the name of Christianity. Would love to see your take on both.

[@sherryhaddock5923]

The pain (losses occur) of idolatry can be so severe that idolatry could be unrealized and go unnoticed in any relationship. Be thankful and pray to God that we learn to be in His peace/purpose.

[@CoryWillis]

Hey Brother Mike or anyone else in the comments. Could you all pray for my friend Kenneth? Found out he's got cancer and just want to get as many believers to pray for his comfort physically but most importantly spiritually. Thanks to all and God Bless!

[@coffeelover4642]

You don’t give off that vibe at all 🙏🏻

[@docmars]

I think it is possible to idolize church attendance and the Bible itself, and still not have a sincere relationship with Christ, because these specific people lack understanding and grace, and often worry more about others' behavior more than their own.

[@ninja1man4u]

For me my idol is money. Especially in these inflation times. I always feel like I need and want more so church seems pointless but I suppose I need to learn God provides. Just HARD to do when you stare at your bank account

[@phillipcummings3518]

Instead of worrying about being broke, think about your relationship with God and how to make it stronger. Money never brings lasting happiness.

[@Oliva_80]

Money is not happiness but humans need to eat and pay rent 😬

[@phillipcummings3518]

@@Oliva_80 Don't act like I told this person to quit his job or not pursue money. This person clearly wrote they think about money so much that they believe church is a waste of time. My point is to put less worry into money and turn that time in productive fellowship with God.

[@meowmeowmeow1243]

There are a lot of things in the Orthodox and Catholic churches that are plain idolatry. I grew up in an orthodox community and when you see people venerating the bones of some saint, some relic, or the virgin Mary, it is sickening. Oh and don`t even get me started on the "miracle working" icons, or on the ones that are supposedly weeping. I have seen people that were dirt-poor, paying their last penny to kiss the rotting bones of some dead dude, hoping they will be healed.

[@jdkayak7868]

I agree, there's a lot of people being drawn to orthodoxy these past years because they are tired of the irreverent worship in many modern churches but this alone is a good reason not to go there. There's plenty of reverent protestant churches left if they looked.

[@tracykarol]

Beautiful answers. I've found I spend a lot of time studying the Bible so try to spend equal time reading. I would never idolize you or any human because I know it's sinful both for me and for the person being idolized.

[@thehuguenot5615]

I had a slight idol of a pastor (didn't pray to him, but thought a lot of him, wanted to meet badly, never thought twice about what he taught, etc). I didn't realize it until his preaching got worse as he got older. It helped me realize he's just another guy like all of us. Now I can't listen to him at all because it's gotten so bad it's not really even possible to learn from him. I'm not sure why he hasn't stepped down yet tbh.

[@toddcooper2563]

Hey Mike, I subscribed to your channel and give you a thumbs-ups, but be assured, I don't idolize you. My church body has their own channel: Redeemer Moberly, and I watch my own church, even though I was there and I watch Ray Comfort and Greg Laurie. None of these I idolize, but I get so much in return by watching every channel. Though we should still physically read scripture, all these channels are still filling my need for God's Word. Keep up the good work.

[@SomethingMobile]

Hello Mike, I'm listening to a book on Audible. It tells how Babylonians handled their finances. As a believer in Christ Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Is it bad to take advice from this book? "The Richest Man in Babylon."

[@eli-bt4he]

I would say that there are at least four prominent examples of rampant idolatry within the Catholic church: the worship of saints as mentioned, the worship of Mary and elevating her to essentially a fourth person of the Godhead, the prominence of literal graven images, and the worship of the Eucharist.

[@ninapryymak3669]

well said!

[@michaelfacey1909]

I see it like this,and it coincide with what you were saying. Entertainers, celebrities and sports figures are looking for that worship and that need to be glorified. You on the other hand are just accepting the appreciation of those that like your channel. You don't brag and say, " Look how they worship me, I'm there God", but rather as you say, take me as your brother that was and is gifted to share the truth and speak on what others may fear to say. But that's just my 2cents🤷🏾‍♂️😅

[@KevinEDF]

Good answer

[@MasterfulPeon]

Hey Mike, love your teachings, they’ve helped me find my faith. Was wondering if you would mind me downloading your videos? I would really love to have them as a backup to watch offline, but I wanted to ask first. Of course I wouldn’t re upload them or anything. Thanks again Mike, your ministry is a godsend.

[@beremp5464]

The right way to do this would be to get KZbin premium which gives you the option to view them while offline.

[@MasterfulPeon]

@@beremp5464 I have that, but would like a backup in case they ever get taken down.

[@catkat740]

3:23 Yay! Love all the patron Saints!

[@blueskies382]

@3:09 oh my goodness.. praying to different saints for what you want.

[@mhansens70]

The concern with getting all Christian content from YT or social media and not reading for yourself is that there is a lot of garbage out there, and people can get drawn into all sorts of bad doctrine. Some seem to take doctrine from YT and then say it's from the Holy Spirit.

[@Andy-413]

Yeah, and so many people have so many different interpretations of many different parts of scripture that it would probably eventually lead people away from Christianity out of pure confusion and frustration if they rely ONLY on other people, never on the bible. It even frustrates me that there are so many interpretations even though I know to double check and compare doctrine and interpretations with the bible.

[@Window4503]

The best thing someone can do in that scenario is look for teachers who give them tools to understand Scripture and think for themselves rather than rely on that person’s teaching and explanations. I frequently think of when Paul said some people should have been teachers “by now” but they still needed milk. Christians shouldn’t just be absorbing lessons but rather equipped to eventually teach or help others

[@theeternalsbeliever1779]

The inherent problem with all of the YT "ministries" is that they want to be viewed as an authority on scriptural matters, no matter how wrong they actually are in regards to their beliefs. That's why they typically like the comments that hype them up as being such a great teacher. The "Christian YTer" gig is very profitable because ppl who know very little about the Bible are preying on ppl who won't fact check them.

[@elizabethbrown2687]

I've read couple of other places that Idolatry is not only replacing with something you love more than God, but also replacing with something you fear more than God. it's like the flip side of covetousness. A rejection of things so hard because there is a belief that that thing if you engage with it will cause you to lose your salvation or to fall from grace. This too is idolatry as those who worshipped false gods often did and do so out of fear of retribution or the withholding of blessing. If I don't give to this false god, my crops will fail and my children will become ill and die, etc. We can give thongs more power than they have when we fear them to such an extent.

[@Ben-kh7wh]

Can any long time listener of Mike answer this for me? Why does Mike have more videos on KZbin vs episodes on his podcast. I want to listen to his podcast but afraid im missing content if I only listen to the podcast vs watching him on youtube. Does anyone know if the content is the same or different? Maybe some of his videos are split into parts whereas on his podcast they aren’t? Thanks in advance

[@mikan2283]

As a Catholic, I really respect your carefulness around this and not clumping all Catholics together. We truly should only seek intercession with saints like asking a friend to help in our prayers to Jesus. I'm afraid some got lost along the way though. It's something sneaky that can happen in any religion imo.

[@johnflorio3576]

Catholic here too and thank you for your input! It’s important to remember only God can answer prayer but anyone can pray.

[@niklash8242]

Brother it is!

[@karl5395]

Self fulfilment, happiness, materialism and achievement can often be a dangerous replacement for God. Unfortunately even amongst professing Christians.

[@stanelywilliams1392]

Modern day idolatry... Watching sports and having your favorite team. Being a fanatic. im guilty of this

[@elizabeths5896]

We should never settle for over-processed leftovers from the doggie bags of others. God desires to serve each of us a fresh feast, at His table for two. (Mike, thank you for serving up appetizers, that give me a hunger to go to God's word for more.)