Friday, October 5, 2012

Just a simple little thought

Outward righteousness is a dangerous thing, because it is in fact outward, seen by all.  So then not only can you assume that you are doing okay, but then everyone else can tell you how great you are.  In reality, you must examine your heart, your motivation -- and when you examine that, then you will see that you remain a sinner in need of repentance, even if by all outward appearances you are the best person in the room.

That's why Luther's explanations of the commandments begin with "We should fear and love God so that..." -- things begin not with what we do, but with why we do them. 

No comments: