BEYOND RELIGION AND FLESH By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit." – John 3:6
Introduction
In our walk with God, one truth stands firm: the flesh cannot inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:50). This profound statement challenges us to go beyond the outward expressions of faith, beyond religious rituals, and beyond superficial changes. It calls us to a life of true transformation—a life led by the Spirit.
This teaching aims to shed light on the importance of authentic repentance, the pitfalls of religiosity, and the necessity of living a Spirit-filled life that honors God. God is not confined to religion; He is a living God who desires a genuine relationship with His people. Let us explore these truths and align our hearts with God’s eternal purpose.
1. The Flesh Cannot Enter the Spiritual Realm
The spiritual life requires us to leave behind the works of the flesh, including sin and superficial religiosity. God calls us to repentance that leads to genuine transformation.
True Repentance:
Repentance is more than confessing sins—it involves a complete change of heart and direction. “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance” (Matthew 3:8) reminds us that repentance must be evident in our actions.
Returning to sin after confessing it mocks God and cheapens His grace.
Key Takeaway: True repentance results in a heart aligned with God’s will. It is not a ritual but a transformation powered by the Spirit.
2. God Is Not Religion
Religion often becomes a man-made box where rituals and traditions replace relationship. Yet, God declares, “I am the Lord, I do not change” (Malachi 3:6)—He is living, dynamic, and beyond human constructs.
Man-Made Religion vs. Living Faith:
- Religion focuses on outward appearances and traditions.
- Faith focuses on obedience to God and walking by the Spirit.
Jesus Warned Against Religious Hypocrisy:
The Pharisees were rebuked for their empty rituals (Matthew 23:27-28). Similarly, God reminds us that wearing a mask of religiosity while lacking spiritual life leads to death. “The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life” (2 Corinthians 3:6).
Key Takeaway: God desires followers who are led by His Spirit, not by religious traditions.
3. Beware of Religious Masks
Many people adopt the outward forms of religion while lacking an inward connection with God. This is like wearing a religious mask—a façade that conceals spiritual emptiness.
God Shapes His People:
God does not honor those who shape themselves according to their own desires or cultural norms. Instead, He molds His followers through His Spirit. As Isaiah 64:8 says, “We are the clay, You are the potter; we are all the work of Your hand.”
True Worship Is Spirit-Filled:
Jesus taught that true worshipers worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). God rejects self-made righteousness and calls us to surrender to His shaping hands.
Key Takeaway: Allow God to transform you from within. Do not settle for external displays of religion; seek spiritual authenticity.
4. Giving Thanks for God’s Living Word
God’s Word is not static or lifeless; it is alive and active, guiding us daily (Hebrews 4:12). Unlike religious traditions that can stagnate, God’s Word leads us to new revelations and deeper understanding.
Avoid Building Denominations on Partial Revelation:
Many denominations arise from partial truths or incomplete understandings of God’s Word. Instead, we must embrace the fullness of His revelation and continually grow in our relationship with Him.
Key Takeaway: Trust in the living Word of God to guide you. Let His Spirit lead you into all truth (John 16:13).
5. Step Into Freedom: Put Religion Under Your Feet
God does not call us to be bound by religious systems but to live in the freedom of the Spirit. As Galatians 5:1 declares, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Living Beyond Religion:
- Do not let man-made rules dictate your faith.
- Follow God’s Spirit wherever He leads—be it to the cities, villages, or remote places (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Key Takeaway: Walk in the freedom of the Spirit, not the bondage of religion.
Conclusion
God is calling us to a higher plane of existence—a life led by His Spirit. Religion, without the Spirit, is dead. True life comes when we submit to God’s will, allow Him to shape us, and walk in obedience to His living Word.
As we grow in our spiritual journey, let us remember: God is not confined to religious systems; He is the living God, constantly moving, guiding, and transforming His people. May we strive to live Spirit-filled lives that reflect His glory and power in all we do.
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17).
