Embracing Kingdom Religion
In a world where appearances often take precedence over authenticity, the concept of "kingdom religion" offers a refreshing and challenging perspective on what it means to truly follow Jesus. This last Sunday at IFC we finished out a series called “Jesus vs Religion” with a look at Matthew 23. In this text, we are invited to examine our own religious practices and discern whether they align with the values of the kingdom of God or the trappings of worldly religion.
The Contrast Between Worldly and Kingdom Religion
Worldly religion is characterized by a focus on external appearances, self-promotion, and adherence to man-made rules that often miss the heart of God's commandments. It is a religion that seeks to gain worldly authority and glory, often at the expense of genuine spiritual transformation. Jesus' harshest criticisms were directed at the religious leaders of His day who embodied this kind of faith—those who were more concerned with their reputation and status than with truly knowing God.
In contrast, kingdom religion is marked by humility, service, and a deep connection to Jesus. It is a faith that prioritizes justice, mercy, and faithfulness over ritualistic observance. Kingdom religion invites us to turn away from self-centered practices and instead focus on loving God and others wholeheartedly.
Self-Reflection and Repentance
Take. second to think about your own spiritual life. Are there areas where you have allowed worldly religion to take root? Do you find yourself more concerned with how you appear to others than with the condition of your heart?
These are difficult questions, but they are essential for anyone seeking to live out an authentic faith.
Repentance is a key theme in Jesus' message. When we recognize the ways in which we have strayed, we are called to turn back to Jesus, who offers grace and forgiveness even to those of us who have fallen into the trap of hypocrisy. I love the image Jesus uses in Matthew 23 of the Mother Hen. Jesus longs to gather us under His wings, offering protection and love to all who seek Him.
Living Out Kingdom Religion
Embracing kingdom religion means actively seeking to align our lives with the teachings of Jesus. It involves a commitment to justice, mercy, and faithfulness, as well as a willingness to serve others selflessly. It means rejecting the temptation to use religion as a means of self-promotion and instead focusing on how we can glorify God in all that we do.
Practically, this might look like engaging in spiritual disciplines not out of obligation, but out of a desire to grow closer to God. It could involve reaching out to those in need, advocating for justice, and sharing the love of Christ with others. It means being honest about our struggles and seeking accountability within our faith communities.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As we consider the message of the sermon, let us be encouraged to examine our own hearts and take steps toward a more authentic, kingdom-focused faith. Let us reject the empty practices of worldly religion and embrace the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus. In doing so, we not only find our own lives enriched, but we also become beacons of hope and love to those around us.
May we all strive to live out a faith that truly reflects the heart of the kingdom of God.
