57
Gods made of wood and overlaid with silver and gold are not able to save themselves from thieves and robbers.
58
Strong men will strip them of their gold and silver and of the robes they wear, and go off with this booty, and they will not be able to help themselves.
59
So it is better to be a king who shows his courage, or a household utensil that serves its owner's need, than to be these false gods; better even the door of a house that protects its contents, than these false gods; better also a wooden pillar in a palace, than these false gods.
60
For sun and moon and stars, shining and sent forth for service, are obedient.
61
So also the lightning, when it flashes, is widely seen; and the wind likewise blows in every land.
62
When God commands the clouds to go over the whole world, they carry out his command.
63
And the fire sent from above to consume mountains and woods does what it is ordered. But these idols are not to be compared with them in appearance or power.
64
Therefore one must not think that they are gods nor call them gods, for they are not able either to decide a case or to do good to men.
65
Since you know then that they are not gods, do not fear them.
66
For they can neither curse nor bless kings;
67
they cannot show signs in the heavens and among the nations, or shine like the sun or give light like the moon.