When the Wrong Altar Enters Your Life — Identity, Influence & Compromise 

2 Kings 16:2–3 (CSB)

“He did not do what was right… but walked in the ways of the kings of Israel. He even sacrificed his son in the fire.”

2 Kings 16:7–8 (CSB)

“So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria, saying, ‘I am your servant and your son.’ … He took the silver and gold from the Lord’s temple.”

2 Kings 16:10 (CSB)

“King Ahaz went to Damascus… he saw the altar and sent a model and full plans to Urijah the priest.”

2 Kings 16:14 (CSB)

“He moved the bronze altar from in front of the temple and put it on the north side of his new altar.”

2 Kings 16:17–18 (CSB)

“King Ahaz cut off the frames of the water carts and removed the bronze oxen… to satisfy the king of Assyria.”

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

What “foreign altars” have I allowed into my life or habits?

Where have I allowed fear to push me into ungodly alliances or decisions?

Am I imitating culture more than Christ?

What original pattern is God calling me back to?

Who or what has influenced me like Urijah influenced Ahaz?