The root of idolatry is covetousness (Col. 3:5). Man’s inordinate desire for material prosperity. Fallen men will not seek God who is the true Supplier of their needs. They seek the concoction of a god that can satisfy their lust for gain. The Israelites in the wilderness built a golden calf because it symbolises prosperity. The calf tills the ground and that helps bring the harvest. The golden calf therefore is worshipped so that it may provide them with good harvest.

It is interesting that the Israelites made for themselves a golden calf to worship while Moses was away from them in the Mount communing with living and true God. The people saw the lightning and thundering and the awesome presence of their God. And yet, they made a god to themselves. How is that possible?

This is the subtlety of deception, delusion and unbelief. Believers in Corinth know that the idol is a false god, not real and there is One living and true God as Scripture declares:

Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD.