Main Idea:  The only worship acceptable to God flows from a living and active faith in Jesus Christ.

I.      The purpose of religion is to express and support faith.

II.     Religion without the root of saving faith in Jesus Christ is dead.

Suggested Psalm: 9

Questions to consider: 

·   The sermon identifies “legalism, ritualism, commercialism, factions, and cults of personality” as potential hindrances to faith. Which of these (or others) can be particularly difficult for a church to recognize in itself?

·   Are there Christian activities or practices in my life that could become substitutes for actually knowing and enjoying God?  If Jesus examined the “temple” of my life, what would he find that needs to be cleared out?

·   “God wants to be known.”  Do I genuinely desire to know God more deeply, or am I primarily seeking what Christianity gives me?