Religion has to do with the outward observance of our faith. However, James makes a distinction between "good" religion and "bad" religion. He lived in Jerusalem and had a front row seat of the most religious people of his day. He had literally seen religion at its purest and best and at its lowest and worst. What amazes me is that even though he had seen the worst, he did not merely give up and quit practicing religion, altogether.
This week, James gives us some wise instruction about "religion." And he gives us 3 acid tests of what is "good."
Some people wrongly think that "no religion is better than bad religion" and so they just give up on going to church altogether. That is not the advice of James. I think you will be both surprised and pleased with what he says.
James 1:26-27
26 If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.
27 Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
Here is the first test, but you will have to listen to the message to hear the rest.
Test #1 Pure Religion Keeps the Tongue on a Short Leash. (Wouldn't the world be a much more pleasant place if everyone did this?)
What does James have in mind? Let’s be specific…
Foul Language
Lying
Gossip
Critical and Condemning Speech
Tactless Speech
Sins of the Tongue Start in the Heart. Luke 6:45
45 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Question: How well did you do on the first acid test?
Dr. Kelly Carr, Pastor, New Hope Community Church, 3849 FM 1827, McKinney, TX 75071, May 2, 2021
God Loves You Very Much!
This is a great session for the Christian Life Coach to refer to the person who wants to avoid religion in life. It is also good practical life coaching applications for our speech, the importance of helping others in need, and the importance and personal responsibility of each person to "guard his or her heart."