With pictures of Jesus everywhere - from children's Bibles to church walls to Christmas pageants - many Christians wonder if these images violate the second commandment. Pastor Heath Lambert explains what the Bible really teaches about divine images and when they become problematic.
Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction and new book announcement
1:29 - The question: Are pictures of Jesus wrong?
1:56 - The second commandment explained (Exodus 20:4-6)
2:50 - The incarnation factor: Jesus as the image of God
3:43 - Why we can't see Jesus physically now
4:13 - What the second commandment actually prohibits
4:53 - The difference between making images and worshiping them
5:35 - The key issue: worship vs. artwork
6:13 - Practical application: Pictures, movies, and TV shows
6:48 - Prioritizing Scripture over images
Key Topics Covered
- The Second Commandment's True Meaning - Understanding what Exodus 20:4-6 actually forbids about divine images
- The Incarnation Challenge - How Jesus as "the image of the invisible God" affects our understanding
- Act vs. Intent - Why the commandment focuses on worship, not artistic creation
- Artwork vs. Idolatry - The crucial distinction between making images and bowing down to them
- Practical Guidelines - How to approach pictures of Jesus in children's books, movies, and church art
- Scripture Supremacy - Why God's written word must take precedence over any visual representation
Scripture References
Exodus 20:4-6 - The Second Commandment
Colossians 1:15 - Jesus as the image of the invisible God
About The Ten Commandments Book
Heath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" releases September 30th. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.
Pre-order the book or get your free download of the first chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandments
Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com