This Is True Religion (Luke 3)

John tells people to turn from sin to God (v3). And then he gives examples (v10–14). Repentance is tied to actions, not just words.

→ "Give food to the hungry, clothe the poor, and bless the needy."

Sure, it includes turning from sinful behavior, but remember: sin = missing the mark. And the mark is enjoying life by loving God through loving others.

Therefore, John is explaining that repentance isn't about rules: what you can't eat/watch/listen to, etc. It's thoughts and actions that are self-centered, that hurt other people.

What is God calling us to?

Feed the hungry. Clothe the poor. Bless the needy. Care for the vulnerable.

Why don't churches preach on this?

This is true religion.

God tells Jesus:

"My Son, you are my beloved one. Through you I am fulfilled." (v22)

This is also how God sees me!

I am his child.

He loves me. His purposes and character are fulfilled in my life when I live out what John was teaching.

Jesus did this perfectly.

I am growing in my desire and my ability to live this out.

And through it all, he is well-pleased with me.

Even when I miss the mark and fall short.

God gives more of his Spirit to those who love him and obey him.

As I follow Jesus, I grow stronger. I make more impact. I have more influence.

This is my prayer.

For me.

For Passion.

How much Spirit do we want?

All of it.

We want to see complete transformation in the CV.

7 churches.

5,000 people just at Passion.

So many more following him throughout the Valley.

All of them!