Bootstrap

The One Game Most Universally Played!

2 min read
#The Church #The Five Solas #Soteriology
0 Comments
A.W. Tozer
2 min read
(Adapted from A.W. Tozer)
What does the Bible say about playing religion?

The Bible warns against empty religious practices that lack genuine faith and transformation.

In Malachi 1:10, God expresses His displeasure towards the Israelites for their worthless sacrifices, indicating that their religious activities had become mere rituals devoid of true devotion. This reflects the broader biblical theme that genuine faith must lead to a transformed life, not just a performance of rituals. Many treat religion as a game, seeking applause and recognition rather than true communion with God. Such superficial engagement does not fulfill the purpose of true worship, which is to honor God and grow in holiness.

Malachi 1:10

How do we know genuine faith is important?

Genuine faith is essential because it leads to spiritual transformation and true worship of God.

Genuine faith is emphasized throughout Scripture as it reflects our relationship with God. Without true faith, religious practice often becomes a performance, similar to a game, as illustrated in Tozer's discussion of how people engage in religion without true commitment. This echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 15:8-9, where He quotes Isaiah, stating, 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.' Thus, faith is crucial not only for salvation but also for living a life that glorifies God. It moves believers from mere participation in religious activities to a transformative experience that manifests in holy living.

Matthew 15:8-9

Why is true worship important for Christians?

True worship is important as it fosters a genuine relationship with God and reflects our faith.

True worship goes beyond mere external practices to engage the heart and soul in a relationship with God. In contrast to empty rituals, true worship arises from a life transformed by grace, leading believers to live out their faith through obedience and devotion. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is their spiritual act of worship. This illustrates that worship involves the entirety of our lives, not just occasional acts of service or participation in religious gatherings. Engaging in true worship nurtures a deeper connection with the Creator and aligns our hearts with His will.

Romans 12:1

    Most church people play at religion, as they play at their games!

    Religion itself, is the one game most universally played.

    The Church has its "fields" and "rules" and its "equipment" for playing the game of religion

    It has its devotees, both laymen and professionals, who support the game with their money and encourage it with their presence — but who are no different in life or character from many who take no interest in religion at all! 

    As an athlete uses a ball — so do many of us use religious words. We throw them swiftly across the field — and learn to handle them with dexterity and grace. We gain as our reward, the applause of those who have enjoyed the game. 

    In the secular games which people play, there are no moral benefits. They simply are a pleasant activity which changes nothing, and settles nothing of any importance. 

    Sadly, it is much the same in the game of religion. After the pleasant meeting, no one is basically any different from what he had been before!

    "How I wish one of you would shut the Temple doors so that these worthless sacrifices could not be offered! I am not pleased with you," says the LORD Almighty, "and I will not accept your offerings!" Malachi 1:10

Comments

0 / 2000 characters
Comments are moderated before appearing.

Be the first to comment!

Joshua

Joshua

Shall we play a game? Ask me about articles, sermons, or theology from our library. I can also help you navigate the site.