I was able to get a lot more done today with fewer interruptions. I am feeling much better about this weekend’s message; I put the finishing touches on it today. It really started to take shape once I could dedicate 4 straight hours on it.
This Sunday I will be talking about breaking out of the prison of religion. Last year I did a series called “Religion Stinketh” and had a lot of fun with it. Here is an example of some of the buttons that I’ll be pushing this weekend…
"The Latin word for religion means "to bind or tie up." Religion can bind you so that you are not experiencing the kind of freedom that Christ came to bring to you.
Here are some observations I’ve made about religion: religion seeks control but love gives control. Most often the “religious” folks I see are the controllers; they want the power; don’t you dare make a decision without their two cents or they’ll throw a fit.
Religious people want to control everyone’s thoughts and behaviors; it’s like they become the Holy Spirit police. They will set up rules for everyone else to follow and soon what was supposed to be a relationship turns into legalism. “Don’t go there, don’t wear that, don’t listen to that, don’t drink that, don’t say that, don’t eat that… don’t eat that in here…”
I’ve also noticed that religion condemns but love brings hope. Religion brings a critical spirit. You know who Christians are most critical of? One another.
Why is it that Christians spend so much time keeping track of one another? Why not let God take care of that. We've got enough to worry about just with ourselves. I see other pastors slamming pastors who have growing vibrant churches and I’m like, “What are you doing? We’re on the same team!”
The prison of religion is always an inside job. It was happening when Jesus was on the scene in Jerusalem. The Pharisees are the epitome of religion gone bad..."
You should really show up to church this week and watch all the religious people squirm ;=)
I like what Paul has to say in Galtians 3:1-5 (Gal 3-5 for broader picture). In the message it says that religion is just crazy. Crazy crazy crazy! (I like to picture Martin Lawrence saying it)
ReplyDeleteI listened to the podcast (way cool, by the way). I think we would agree on the principle of what you are saying but.... The message of Christ is freedom from the Law, but from all standards. God calls us to "Be holy because I am holy". Somewhere there has to be a line of acceptability (albiet, one no one can attain). If we continue to sin we do not know Christ. To judge (correct) other Christians is part of being in fellowship. It should be done in love (rarely does this happen), but never-the-less someone must say to a wayward brother or sister--You are wrong and need to straighten up. 1 John 2 says "3 And how can we be sure that we belong to him? By obeying his commandments. 4 If someone says, “I belong to God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and does not live in the truth. 5 But those who obey God’s word really do love him. That is the way to know whether or not we live in him. 6 Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did." Pretty clear to me. Obeying His (not Moses') commandments. It may and alot of times does lead to legalism, but in itself "religion" is not bad. But...like I said, I think I agree with the basic point you were making. Just my rambles.
ReplyDeleteKenny,
ReplyDeleteYou are right on the money when you mention that we have a right to judge other Christians within the church. Unfortunately, I've had to confront Christians about sinful behavior (several within the last month). The point I was trying to make in the message about "religion" is when we begin to judge other Christians about matters that are not an issue of sin, but preference.
Thanks again for highlighting the truth of God's Word regarding proper judgment. Glad you enjoy the podcasts keep on listening, and keep on studying God's Word - good job!