You may have heard the term "groupthink". It has been said that because of a small few (or just one) persons of influence an entire group of people could think a certain way or make decisions that could be wrong. They did not consider the matter with all the facts and are guided by assumptions that seem right, but are actually not valid. Sometimes it leads to small mistakes that can be easily corrected, but other times it has lead to mass killings, and even mass suicides. I believe the people of Israel had this challenge. Hosea 10:5-6 The inhabitants of Samaria fear Because of the calf of Beth Aven. For its people mourn for it, And its priests shriek for it— Because its glory has departed from it. The idol also shall be carried to Assyria As a present for King Jareb. Ephraim shall receive shame, And Israel shall be ashamed of his own counsel. The mention of the calves in this chapter reminds me of the reverence my old faith had for the cow. I...