“Having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2Timothy3:5) points out those who are far from holiness but appear holy outwardly and those who are unrighteous but seem righteous. They are hypocrites with a split personality, like wolves in sheep’s clothing, pretending to be godly and righteous. However, God never tolerate the hypocrites. Double minded persons, whose outward appearance oppose from inner reality cannot excuse themselves for God. He accepts only godly people, not any form of godliness. Therefore, we should not pretend to be godly, but uncover double-minded character, repent every sin, and become godly.
David pretended to be godly and offered sacrifices to God, after committing adultery with Uriah’s wife. God did not accept that sacrifice and tell him through a prophet, “You shall bring a broken spirit” Hearing this, David wept bitterly saying “Lord, Renew a steadfast spirit within me (Psalm 51:7~10)”. In several days and nights, he repented on his bed and pleaded to God so that Lord can transform him to be truly godly person. God listened to his prayer and forgave his sin. Likewise, we should repent sincerely and recover godliness within us.
When you truly wept and repented, your heart would feel refreshed, since the sin that distressed you was forgiven by the work of the blood of Jesus Christ. Your heart was cleansed and joy sprang up to be overflown. Likewise, those who tasted such spiritual joy one continues to be godly, repenting sins and wrestling in prayer to live according to the Word of God
You should sincerely obtain the strength to keep yourselves be godly, not decorating outward appearance of godliness. The Lord sees though your inner heart whether you have the power of godliness, enabled by the work of the blood of Jesus on the cross. God looks at the inner heart, not outward appearance.
Pastor Seok-Jeon Yoon
Extracted from Yonsei Newspaper #899
