53
For they cannot set up a king over a country or give rain to people.
54
They cannot judge their own cause or deliver one who is wronged, for they have no power;
55
they are like crows between heaven and earth. When fire breaks out in a temple of wooden gods overlaid with gold or silver, their priests will flee and escape, but the gods will be burned up like timbers.
56
Besides, they can offer no resistance to king or enemy. Why then must anyone admit or think that they are gods?
57
Gods made of wood and overlaid with silver and gold are unable to save themselves from thieves or robbers.
58
Anyone who can 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 are bright, and when sent to do a service, they 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.