Worldly Religion

And in the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever, ~ Daniel 2:44

After returning from exile, nothing was ever quite the same in Jerusalem. However, by the time of Jesus, the city would be heavily populated and progressive again - mainly due to the efforts of King Herrod the Great. Temple worship resumed and generated substantial commerce. Nevertheless, something was missing.  Religion replaced the relationship with God. The traditions and social expectations became more critical than the heart of the Law that informed the customs. Religious structures and influence grew while devotion to the LORD shriveled. There were cultural Jews, religious Jews, and seekers. 

Cultural Jews were worldly people whose relationship with their religion was minimal and whose language and religious heritage informed values and habits, but little more. Religious Jews took themselves and their faith very seriously. The appearance of righteousness and the approval and admiration of other religious Jews meant a great deal to them. They tended to worship the Law more than its author. Seekers lived within the culture and practiced the religion but hungered for more. They wanted to know why they should perpetuate the traditions. They wondered why religious leaders acted like the Messianic promises would never be fulfilled. They sought comfort from their religion and intimacy with their God. Christianity followed an identical pathway throughout its history. Today there are cultural and religious Christians, and there are seekers. Which are you? 

The Prophet Daniel foresaw the destruction of the Temple and the devastation of Jerusalem that occurred in 70 A.D. In the passage above, Daniel describes the end of all kingdoms, cultures, and customs - this too shall surely come to pass. When it does, will your culture and traditions matter? The King of the indestructible Kingdom will measure all things. This same King invites you into a personal relationship with Him. He alone made a way to be saved from inevitable destruction. His love for you will save you and make you welcome in His Father’s house for all eternity. 

Cultural Christians and Jews still reject Him as their King. Nevertheless, persevering seekers will find Him, especially when the citizens of His Kingdom raise the King’s banner high. Then, their sanctified (separated) lives will bear witness to His leadership. Their radical peace and joy will infect them even while secular Christians and Jews mock them and reject them. 

Where do you see cultural Christianity and worldly religion in and around your life? How can you cultivate a more intimate relationship with the King, Christ Jesus? What can you do to join with other seekers and disciples? Are you aware of others in your church who hunger for more? How can you band together for service to the King before it’s too late?