In Vain Do They Worship Me

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. - Matthew 15:8

    This was our Lord’s commentary concerning the professing Pharisee. Their outward form of worship was in vain because of their unbelief. They had his name upon their lips but no love for him in their hearts. I fear this is the case of many in the visible churches today. Although the Lord knows what is in man then and now, it is more evident now than then for all to see. The Pharisee of his day was devoted and committed to the external motions of ceremonial religion. The average church- going Pharisee of our day holds to a profession of doctrine with little or no devotion or commitment in any form.

    Sad to say, this is not only the case in rank Arminian assemblies, it is the case in many assemblies where the sovereign grace of God is preached faithfully. Many would fight and argue over the five points of Calvinism and their profession of faith, but they don’t have a heart of love and commitment to Christ and his church. Even many in the ministry seem to believe that if they can convert men from Arminianism to Calvinism their salvation is certain and the ministry is successful.

    I am convinced by the Word of God and by experience that those whom God the Spirit has efficaciously called to faith in Christ Jesus our Lord will have a new heart that is near to Christ in love, devotion and commitment. God’s preachers will not be cheerleaders and babysitters. They will preach Christ and him crucified to sinners. Do we have a head for doctrine without a heart for Christ? There could be no more sorrowful edict from Jesus Christ than, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.