In this segment of the 'idolatry today' series, Brandon Clayton discusses how self is the first idol in American culture that Christians must confront. He argues that patriotism and the pursuit of personal rights, as embedded in the American Constitution, often conflict with the principles of God's Kingdom, which calls for self-denial and submission to God's will. Clayton emphasizes that Christians must relinquish their American-inspired rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and embrace the sacrifices and sufferings required to live according to God's righteousness. He explores how the American cultural emphasis on self-promotion and entitlement can lead believers away from true discipleship and challenges them to prioritize God's Kingdom over their own desires.

00:00 Introduction to Idolatry Today Series
00:06 Self-Idolatry in American Culture
00:39 Scriptural Warnings Against Self-Love
01:55 The Conflict Between American Values and God's Kingdom
04:27 The Illusion of Rights in God's Kingdom
06:41 The Call for Self-Denial
16:08 The Misconception of Freedom in Faith
20:15 The Misuse of Freedom in Faith
20:59 True Allegiance to God
22:02 Freedom Through Righteousness
24:06 The Pursuit of Happiness vs. God's Will
28:02 Suffering for the Kingdom
30:48 The Rich Man's Dilemma
32:32 The High Standard of God's Kingdom
36:07 Recap and Final Thoughts

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