A True Jew – by Ken Barnes
"No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God..." (Romans 2:29a NLT)
The Church is facing many external pressures today in a culture that is increasingly anti-God and anti-Christ. But, the greatest problem we may have could be one that is internal, which is the scourge of legalism. This puts our emphasis on how we appear on the outside, rather than how we are on the inside.
Jesus, though not condoning their sin, did not condemn the tax collectors and prostitutes. He knew they were only doing what sinners do. But, the Pharisees were a different story. His greatest outrage came for those who portrayed one lifestyle while living another. Paul tells us that it is not about following a bunch of rules. "And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit" (v.29b). And this never happens from the outside in, only the inside out.
If we are really honest, we have to admit that we are all somewhat legalistic. It comes from our human nature. There is, however, a way of telling if our hearts are changing. "And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people" (v. 29c).
From whom do you seek praise, is it man or God? If it is man, you are still part of the problem. External righteousness can fool man and gain his approval but never win God’s sanction.
Ken Barnes, the author of “The Chicken Farm and Other Sacred Places” YWAM Publishing. Contact
