Message by Ron Walter on Mark 7:1-23
In our journey of faith, there’s a crucial distinction between being religious and being a true disciple of Jesus. This exploration of Mark 7:1-23 reveals important truths about what it means to follow Jesus authentically.
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There’s a difference between being religious and being a disciple.
Religious people often emphasize external actions over internal transformation. Like the Pharisees who traveled 75 miles to catch Jesus’ disciples not performing ceremonial hand washing, they focus on rules and traditions rather than genuine heart change.
The problem isn’t with good actions themselves – it’s when these actions become mere rituals without heart engagement. Jesus called out the religious leaders for honoring God with their lips while their hearts remained far from Him.
How do religious people miss the point?
People who are simply religious tend to:
- Focus on the action, not the heart
- Use rules for their own purposes
- Create loopholes to avoid responsibilities
- Focus on appearance over substance
- Build power structures through religious authority
The example of “Corban” shows how religious leaders created traditions that actually contradicted God’s commands, allowing people to avoid caring for their parents by claiming their resources were dedicated to God.
What Makes Someone a True Disciple?
True discipleship is marked by three key elements:
- Following Jesus
- Being changed by Jesus
- Commitment to Jesus’ mission
The crucial difference lies in the heart. While religious people are driven by activities and rules, disciples are motivated by love for Jesus and a transformed heart.
How does God transform our hearts?
God promised a new covenant where He would write His laws on people’s hearts rather than stone tablets. This transformation happens through:
- The indwelling of the Holy Spirit
- Producing spiritual fruit (love, joy, peace, etc.)
- Growing in spiritual maturity
- Developing genuine devotion to God
Life Application
This week, examine your motivations for spiritual practices.
- Are you doing religious activities out of habit or heart?
- Do your actions flow from love for Jesus or obligation?
- Where do you need the Holy Spirit’s help to transform your heart?
Challenge: Choose one spiritual practice you regularly do and intentionally focus on your heart motivation rather than just the action. Ask God to help you engage with Him genuinely rather than merely going through the motions.
Remember: You’re not alone in this journey. God has given us His Spirit, His church, and His presence to help transform our hearts from the inside out.