James & Mark Batterson talking about Primal Faith

This week – we have been looking at portions of James.

I’m reading a book written by Mark Batterson – Primal. The premise of the book – which he wrote as a result of a trip to the Holy Lands (Brian – we’re looking for a book from you when you return from Israel) is an examination of what we call Christianity today in light of what Christianity was from the beginning.

James asks these questions about religion.

James 1:26-27 – 26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Mark and James both ask us questions about our faith and about our practice of that faith. I have to hope that our faith is more than committee meetings, weekly worship, giving of offerings, and the like.

As I read this book further I will give you some more of Mark’s insights. Suffice it to say we need to be real and authentic in our faith – in our worship of God. Going through the motions won’t cut it. Pretending to be a Christian won’t cut it with God either. His grace is free, but not cheap.

John 3:16 – "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” NIV

Believing in Jesus is not merely head knowledge – although we should study to know God’s Word and truths. Believing in Jesus is not about doing good deeds – although serving others is a part of our faith journey. Believing in Jesus is about a relationship with Jesus – something that is life changing, something that is Primal – base and sturdy.

Just something to think about today as you go on your way.