Levi’s Gospel: Real vs. Religious

Some people say, “I am spiritual, but I’m not religious.” Maybe that’s because we expect “religious” people to be judgmental hypocrites. Or maybe it’s because “spiritual” is very vague, so it can mean whatever we want. At New Day, our goal is not squishy spirituality or rigid religiosity; our mission is to make disciples. Disciples are real people who really follow Jesus. Levi, a disciple of Jesus, recorded some events that show us just how important it is to God that we get real.

Matthew 3:8 (NASB)  Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance;

Matthew 3:8-9 (NLT) 8  Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. 9  Don’t just say to each other, ‘We’re safe, for we are descendants of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones.  

BIG IDEA: Religion without real repentance is not at all impressive to God.

Questions for Consideration and Discussion

What are some of the ways we tend to use religious busyness to feel safe from God?

Why do you think confessing your sinfulness is an important part of repentance?

What are some ways real repentance shows in your attitude and your actions?