(Short Answer) – Yes, loyalty can exist without idolatry.

(Long Answer with an explanation of my thoughts)

True loyalty is characterized by unwavering commitment and support without placing anyone or anything on an uncritical pedestal, which veers into idolatry. Healthy loyalty fosters critical thinking and constructive feedback while steadfastly upholding essential values of support and allegiance.

Loyalty itself is not a problem; issues arise when it is practiced blindly, ignoring potential consequences, or applied without thoughtful consideration. Unidirectional loyalty—where one person is devoted to another who does not reciprocate—can be particularly problematic. It’s crucial to recognize that loyalty often operates within a framework of mutual expectations, reinforcing the need for balance and reciprocity in any loyal relationship.

The notion of submission to authority has become increasingly unpopular in contemporary Western society, marked by a notable shift in moral perspectives. This transformation is so significant that if Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, were to interact with an audience in 21st-century America, his straightforward and often critical evaluations of moral failings within his community might easily be construed as excessively harsh or even abusive. He addressed various forms of immoral behavior among his followers with a frankness that many today might find unsettling or intolerant.

In the modern context, loyalty and unwavering commitment to others—qualities once seen as virtues—are frequently misinterpreted as forms of idolatry. This reinterpretation can lead to the dismissal of deep, meaningful relationships as somehow inappropriate or unhealthy. For example, consider the profound and complex friendship between David and Jonathan. In today’s cultural climate, their bond might be labeled as an “idolatrous relationship,” stripped of its historical and emotional significance.

Take a moment to reflect on David’s unwavering respect for Saul, whom he repeatedly referred to as “my father,” even in the face of Saul’s relentless pursuit to kill him driven by jealousy and fear. This exemplifies an extraordinary loyalty that is often overlooked in our current era. Similarly, the prophet Samuel displayed remarkable fidelity to Eli, his mentor, even after receiving a direct prophecy from God that condemned Eli’s behavior. This kind of steadfastness appears increasingly rare in a world that often prioritizes individualism over allegiance to authority figures or traditions.

The pervasive influence of humanism, which prioritizes human reason and individual agency, has spread rapidly across the globe, largely facilitated by the internet and social media. This advancement has accelerated the erosion of traditional values, replacing them with a more self-centered worldview. In stark contrast, many societies that are sometimes labeled as “primitive” maintain a strong emphasis on virtues such as devotion, loyalty, and a sense of community, which continue to be regarded with high esteem. This divergence in values highlights a fundamental shift in how relationships and authority are perceived in our contemporary landscape.

Again, Yes, loyalty can exist without idolatry.