A Matter Of The Heart

“Amplify:  A Matter of the Heart” Mark 7:1-23   Heart Issues . . .   The sin in our heart, not the stuff on our hands, is what defiles us and separates us from a holy God. (vv. 1-4, 14-16, 20-23) ·         It’s not about our hands, but our hearts. o   As a true follower of Christ, our hands (what we do) will become conformed to the transforming work of the gospel in our heart.   The most sincere worship that pleases God is that which comes from a heart transformed by the gospel, not by meaningless lip service. (vv. 6-7)   “Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth.  Therefore let your words be few.”  Ecclesiastes 5:2   The great tragedy is exchanging the redemptive plan of God for the ruinous plan of man.(vv. 8-9) ·         It is the pattern of sinful man. o   Both religious legalism (pursuing righteousness through actions) and religious liberalism (claiming grace but living how we want) are an offense to a holy God. §  Legalism says, “I must do this.” §  Liberalism says, “I can do this.” §  Salvation says, “Jesus has done this.”   Questions for Discussion . . . 1.       How was the Pharisees and Scribes legalistic fervor for cleanliness an expression of pride?  How are legalism and pride connected? 2.      What are some of our tendencies toward legalism (individually, corporately, etc.,)?  How do you recognize them?  How do you deal with those tendencies? 3.       What point do you think Jesus was making when He quoted Isaiah 29:13 in Mark 7:6-7?  4.      What are some traditions that you have experienced personally within religion (people, the church,etc.,) that are more traditions of men than commandments of God? 5.      I what ways do other religions focus on external actions?  How is Christianity different?   6.      In what ways do you see religious liberalism being expressed in churches and in culture?  In what ways are God’s commandments being exchanged for man’s desires?