They followed worthless idols and became worthless themselves. (Jeremiah 2:5)

It is popular to think that there is value in every religion, and that there is value and wisdom in every philosophy. Moreover, it is said that those who believe very different things from us are often individuals of high intellect and morality. And so every opinion deserves our respect. It is remarkable that this has infiltrated the thinking of Christians, so that even those who profess the name of Christ often regard this respect for all religions and opinions as an expression of Christian love and humility.

God demands us to take the opposite view. His opinion is that non-Christian religions are worthless. He revealed himself as the only deity who could receive worship, and he commanded that there should be no other gods before him. He does not praise those who worship other gods as diverse and broad-minded people, but he calls their religions worthless. He is not fooled by another popular idea, that intelligent and righteous people can believe some unintelligent and unrighteous things. The fact that they participate in worthless worship means that they are worthless people. Let us agree with God in all things, and join with him in calling all non-Christians worthless. They believe in worthless things, they worship worthless things, and they are worthless people.

God has rescued us from our worthlessness and called us to a life of true worship. He saved us not because we had value, for we were as worthless as the non-Christians all around us. But he saved us because of his own kindness and for his own purpose. He enlightened us and taught us the truth about reality, that there is only one God, and only he deserves worship. He has called us to become worthwhile people who could do worthwhile things and live worthwhile lives. This is the new life that he has given us through faith in Jesus Christ.