Icons and Idolatry

Q: Are the icons [ed: paintings, drawings, and the like of various saints or of Christ] idolatry?

A: It depends upon how icons are used. The Bible warns against contacting the dead, or about worshiping anyone or anything other than the true God, so I'd not call upon a saint for help, nor would I “worship” the icon nor the saint. However, if they are used to focus our thoughts and our devotion, icons and other types of religious art can be used well and wisely.

Send email to Ask the Pastor.

Walter Snyder is the pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Emma, Missouri and coauthor of the book What Do Lutherans Believe.