TELL US A STORY: A Story of Spiritual Insincerity

October 1, 2023 —

You have maybe heard the accusation or perhaps even made it yourself: “He’s so fake!” That charge claims someone’s friendliness or kindness is a sham. Such insincerity bothers us. We would generally rather someone be honest about how they feel about us than be fake.

Through a story Jesus teaches us in our Gospel Lesson that God feels the same. God doesn’t want us to simply go through religious motions like some sort of show. He sees right through that. God’s desire is that our repentance would demonstrate sincere sorrow over sin. God wants us to see the grace and forgiveness he has shown us in Christ, and in response, to love him back deeply and sincerely.

In our Old Testament Lesson, the prophet Ezekiel gives a strong warning to Christians who have grown dismissive of their sin. God wants sincere repentance that leads to true obedience. In our Epistle Paul reminds us we believers sincerely attempt to imitate the selflessness and humility of Jesus.

          TELL US A STORY:

• A Story of Perplexing Generosity
• A Story of Spiritual Insincerity
• A Story of Reckless Patience
• A Story of Insane Rejection