An Active Faith
Introduction:
The
spiritual lives of many people have a tragic reality: They are not
changing. Is this really
surprising? In the church, typically, we have had other expectations (Attend every service, Affirm the correct
beliefs, etc.). Many do these things – but have not changed. In today’s
church, we need to set clear expectations and a great, positive environment for
spiritual transformation and growth. As we go throughout June, we want to take
a careful look at what spiritual living is all about. Take a moment &
envision what your life can look like if you were able to be more spiritual.
I. Being spiritual may not be what you think.
A.
When we
misunderstand spirituality, it will lead us to frustration & misery.
B.
Some have tried
to make the essence of Christianity “an educational activity.”
1.
More knowledge
does not always equal more spirituality. (Mt. 23:5)
2.
2 Pet 3:18; Psa.
119:1-2, 5-8, 17-18, 97-98, 104-105 – this is not to discount on the
value of spiritual knowledge.
3.
Understand that
knowledge is a key ingredient to spirituality, but not the ingredient.
C.
We must not reduce
the essence of Christianity to “contemplative actions.”
1.
Mt. 23:5-7
– we must guard against superficial and the most visible ways to
demonstrate our spirituality.
2.
We must not associate
spirituality only with outward behavior.
II. The essence of Christianity is an active religion
of faith and obedience.
A.
Mt. 7:21 –
Jesus connects faith & works. Our faith must be more than a profession.
B.
How should we
define spirituality? How should we assess spiritual progress?
1.
Scripture speaks
with clarity in 1 John 2:4-6
C.
Transformation
happens when we order our lives in such a way that we stay connected to Jesus.
1.
Thinking as He
thought
2.
Speaking as He
spoke
3.
Walking as He
walked
D.
This cannot be a
compartmentalized pursuit. See 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1.
1.
God is not interested in your “spiritual” life. He is
interested in your “life.” All of
it.
III. What does spirituality look like lived out?
A.
See Col. 3:17. Names
reflect a person’s character.
B.
Col. 3:17 comprehensively:
1.
Whatever you do.
2.
In word or deed.
3.
Do it all in the
name of the Lord.
C.
Let’s give God
our whole life, every minute, every detail.
Conclusion:
A.
1 John 1:5-7;
2:1-6 - Are you walking in the light? If not, begin/get started back on your spiritual journey.