Definition: Shall a man make gods unto himself, and they [are] no gods?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Jeremiah 16:20 together. It’s a really important question that speaks to the dangers of worshiating idols or false deities. Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Core Message: This verse is essentially saying, “Don’t make idols – don’t worship anything other than God.” It warns against focusing on something that isn’t truly divine and can be dangerous. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Shall a man make gods unto himself…” - This means “Will a person create an idol, or an image of something that isn't real?” It’s about challenging the very idea of worshipping anything other than God. "...and they [are] no gods?" – This is the crucial part. It’s asking if these idols are real gods? The word “they” refers to the images and objects people create. What does this mean in practical terms? Historically, throughout history, many cultures around the world created idols – statues, carvings, symbols, or even just elaborate decorations – that were seen as representations of deities. These weren’t actually gods; they were meant to be worshipped instead of God. Jeremiah was warning people about this potential danger. He believed that when people began to focus on these false idols, it could lead them astray and cause problems for themselves and their nation. Why is this important? The Bible teaches us that the only true god is God Almighty – the one who created the universe and loves humanity. Worshiping anything else – any image or object – is a distraction from that true relationship with God. It can lead to selfishness, pride, and ultimately, spiritual emptiness. In short, Jeremiah’s warning reminds us to stay focused on and worship only God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore why this message is still relevant today?