Shri Nathji’s explanations thrilled them. His description of idol-worship was also very convincing, and new:
An idol merely serves as a reminder of God, the spirit. It is like having a picture of your friend in the house. Each time you look at the picture, you are reminded of your friend.
“When you talk through a telephone, it is not the telephone you are talking to, but rather the person on the other end of the line.
“An idol serves a similar purpose for many. The worship they offer to it is directed towards God. Upon setting eyes on the image they are reminded only of God and no one else. To that extent, the image serves a useful purpose.
“God, who is everywhere, and in everything, even in the smallest of atoms, can also exist within an idol of stone. He understands the intention of man, regardless of his mode of worship.
“He can give to a worshipper the fruits of his devotion through any medium He chooses–even through the medium of an idol. The one who answers prayers is God alone. The idol serves as a useful medium for concentration.
“When man has advanced further spiritually, he can visualise God within himself. God shall then speak to him from within!