Young Adults' Group

Pure And Defiled Religion

by Pastor Mark
October 26, 2023

Understanding true religion

Many think and claim they are religious and practising a true religion. But what is a true religion? This was a concern that the Apostle James had for his fellow brethren, as to the kind of religion that they were practising. It is of utmost importance that we know and practise a true religion. If not, all our efforts would be in vain. Let us guard against being deceived.

The problem of being deceived

“If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.” (James 1:26)

1. The Greek word for “deceive” is “apatao” which means to “seduce, cheat”.
2. There is the danger of “cheating” ourselves if we only have a formal religion.
3. By attending church and participating in events, we think we are “religious” and “pious”.
4. But we may only be practising external religiosity.
5. One way to determine whether we are truly religious or not is how we live our lives.
6. For instance, what we say matters, whether we are able to bridle our tongue or not.
7. We deceive ourselves if we do not control what we say and still think we are religious.

The challenge is to not be deceived and to guard against practising a useless religion.

Pure and undefiled religion

“Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this:” (James 1:27)

1. God determines for us who is truly religious.
2. The Father Himself scrutinises and approves the religion of His children.
3. A true religion is pure and clean.
4. It is undefiled, untainted by anything immoral.
5. This is what true religion is meant to be.

Practising a pure and undefiled religion

1. In terms of practical ministry

“To visit orphans and widows in their trouble,” (James 1:27)

1. The challenge is to have a heart that cares for those in trouble.
2. We want to go beyond ourselves and minister to them.
3. Being religious is thinking of others, knowing their needs and doing something about it.
4. The challenge is to respond to them in their time of trouble.
5. These would include the orphans and the widows.
6. They need help as they are not getting the necessary support due to the loss of loved ones.
7. True religion is to reach out to these helpless ones who are in dire need.

Let us be challenged to practise pure and undefiled religion practically.

2. In terms of personal life

“And to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27)

1. The “world” refers to its evil and wicked influences.
2. They can taint and defile our lives and ministry.
3. The challenge is to live holy and unspotted lives.
4. It is not only just ministering to others, but also how we conduct our personal lives.
5. We should diligently watch out for our manner of life each day, to be pleasing to the Lord.

Let us ensure we are not deceived into thinking we are religious but practise a pure and undefiled religion in living righteously and loving in meaningful ways.

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