Deuteronomy 12:30 Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. 31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God
And the principle perseveres even though covenants change.
What did not God simply coopt paganism with all its distinctive pagan practices, which many liberals and atheists falsely charge our faith is, rather than commanding,
But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire. (Deuteronomy 7:5)
Why did God want the high places destroyed rather than transforming them into places of His worship? It perpetuated them so that they easily reverted back to what they were, as these were not trees, so to speak, that God had planted.
New creations, not re-formation of paganism.
The lack of concern for God’s wishes and instruction is rather troubling.
In the crucified and risen Christ all pagan gods are conquered and all of creation is sanctified for good use to those who believe on His Name.
No, God does not coopt paganism. He utterly defeats it, while at the same time enjoining those who believe on His name to make use of His gifts and objects in this world in a manner that serves the neighbor and honors his name. In my home, the Christmas tree points to the tree of the cross and the glory that awaits us through the benefits of Christ. And in my household, we do not bind our consciences to rules others would like to heap upon us as if Christ has not already fulfilled the Law in every detail.