However startling this phraseology may appear at first, it is perfectly easy to point out, by instancing a few particulars in analysis, the plain reason for such an application of terms. Gold seems in many respects very like a god; not the only living and true God, but some human conception of the deity, resembling those of the savage or unchristianised regions of the world.
I. No matter where we begin. Take the attributes it possesses, if you will, for examination. (1) Omniscience, for example. Wealth seems to know everything on the instant that it occurs. Gold has a million eyes; it sees in the dark; it infringes patents, pre-empts islands, places itself over hidden mines. It knows everything by instinct, it pushes forward almost as if it were an all-seeing deity. (2) Of course, omnipresence follows. "Mammon worms its way where scruples might despair." (3) Omnipotence likewise. Gold rules the world, gold owns the land, inhabits the palaces, buys up the offices of the nation, sways the mighty sceptre of social influence, and becomes the master of men.
II. Wealth assumes to be a god, and oftentimes really appears to be one, because of the worship it attracts.
III. Wealth seems very like a god in the favours it bestows.
IV. Wealth seems very like a god because of the scourges it inflicts. See then (1) The reason why God is so violent in striking at this sin. It is the most direct offence that can be given to Him. (2) See, too, how covetousness destroys personal piety. He is covetous whose piety is chilled by gold; he is covetous for whom Christ is not a sufficiency when gold fails. (3) See how covetousness ruins all one's future. It leaves him with his chosen god. "Ephraim is joined to his idols, let him alone."
C. S. Robinson, Sermons on Neglected Texts,p. 143.
References: Colossians 3:10. Clergyman's Magazine,vol. iii., p. 207.