Tim Keller is fast becoming one of evangelicalism’s most brilliant and thoughtful writers in the new century. And although I certainly don’t want to make an idol of his work, this book is a must-read.

If anyone is capable of astutely explaining how doctrinal accuracy, ministry success or moral rectitude can become idols within the church, it’s TK.

May our affections always be stirred by the one true Hope who is Christ Himself.

Keller doesn’t address the issues of NT idolatry. He does use examples from Old and New as he makes his way through the book.

I do not believe we are over-emphasizing it, and I think the NT mentions it more than that. (1 Thess 1 speaks of us being delivered from it.) Of course, my forthcoming book is on this subject as well, so I may be the wrong person to ask!

I haven’t read the book, but might someday. I’m sure there’s much I could learn from it.

A couple days ago, I read this definition of idolatry that I really liked: “An idol is someone or something that occupies the place of God in your life,” he said. “[It] gives you identity, meaning, value, purpose, love, significance, security” (Mark Driscoll).

In Reformed circles, there’s a strong anti-idolatry emphasis, which for the most part is needed and healthy. However, this has left me wondering about 2 questions…

1. Are we over-emphasizing spiritual idolatry since the NT mentions it only twice (Eph. 3:5; Col. 3:5)?

2. Is it wise to summarize all sins as idolatry when the NT summarizes them only as not loving God and your neighbor?

Trevor, does Keller address these questions?