The Heart of the Matter

WHERE FAITH MEETS LIFE
The Heart of the Matter
Mark Johnson
June 6, 2010
 
James 1:27
James is being very clear: right religious action does not give me a right heart, but a right heart leads me to right religious action.
 
Religion without a transformed heart is worthless.
 
There are many actions that are evidence of this transformed heart.
 
Last week’s message:  a tongue that is under rein.
 
Matthew 12:34
 
Now we come to two more issues:
 
I.  Look after Orphans and Widows.
 
James is saying - if your heart is right with God, it will by nature help those in need.
 
Galatians 2:9-10
Here is a great place to search our hearts:
1. What is my natural heart reaction to those in need?
2. What am I doing right now to minister to those in need?
II. Desire to Live Pleasing to God.
 
There is an enormous difference between the person who asks, ‘What can I do and still be saved?’ and the one who asks, ‘How can I live my life pleasing to God?’
 
 
Where do we get contaminated or spotted?
A.  Mouth
B.  Mind
C.  Attitudes
D.  Emotions
E.  Priorities
F.  Values
G.  Morals
H.  Worldview
 
How do we keep ourselves from becoming contaminated or spotted?
 
Ephesians 5:25-27
The pure and faultless heart searches for God not out of religious duty, but becomes religious out of a heart’s desire to please God.
The heart of the matter: check the desire of your heart.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Pastor’s blog:  http://www.calvaryspringfield.org/resources/blog

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