Religious Activities and Sin in One's Life

Two things to consider, when using this study guide:

• Many of the Old Testament religious practices are different from what we do today. We do not live under the Old Covenant regulations, which God gave to Israel. We should remember, however, that though the religious practices may be different, the principles taught in the Old Testament are applicable to all generations.

• The section at the end of the study guide ("The responsibility of others") was added, just to maintain a balanced perspective. This was not the main focus of the study, so much more could be said, than was included.

Dealing with your sin is more important than participation in religious activities. How much more important?

• Matthew 5:23-24

In the following passages, what are some examples of things that are more important than religious activities? When these more important things are neglected, what does God say about our religious activities? What does he say about us?

• 1 Samuel 15:22
• Psalm 51:16-17
• Proverbs 21:3
• Isaiah 1:11-17
• Isaiah 58:5-7
• Hosea 6:6
• Amos 5:21-24

Note that even good things can become sinful, when priorities are neglected.

• Matthew 23:23

What are our most important obligations? How important are they, compared our religious activities?

• Mark 12:32-33
• 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Are there sins in your life that you have been unwilling to deal with? If so, what does the Bible say you need to do? When are you going to do it? If you are unwilling to deal with your sins, what does the Bible say about you?

[The responsibility of others]

The responsibility of other people to confront a person about his sin (and also to forgive):

• Matthew 18:15-17
• Luke 17:3-4

Two warnings that accompany this obligation:

• Matthew 7:3-5
• Galatians 6:1

Dennis Hinks © 2000