Bad Religion · Week 2 · Day 1: Let Jesus See the Inside

Bad Religion · Week 2 · Good Works Without Love
October 18, 2026 · Jonah Tolpezninkas

Read: Luke 11:37–42

“Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also?” — Luke 11:40

Reflection

It is possible to have a full calendar of good things and still feel distant from God. We can show up, give generously, read our Bibles, and help other people while avoiding what is happening inside us. The outside can look cared for even when resentment, fear, or a need for approval is growing underneath.

At a meal with a Pharisee, Jesus used the picture of a cup washed only on the outside. The problem was deeper than a missed religious custom. Jesus saw people carefully tending to appearances while neglecting justice and the love of God. Their visible faithfulness could not clean what was happening within.

That picture can make us uncomfortable. Before applying it to another person or church, we can let Jesus address our own hearts. We may want to list our failures or defend all the good we do. But consider the question Jesus asks: the One who made the outside also made the inside. Nothing within us is beyond his concern. We can bring him the parts of our lives that a polished appearance has kept hidden.

The sermon’s invitation begins with God’s love. Jesus came to save and renew people whose hearts needed more than a better routine. We can tell him the truth because his love does not begin after we have made ourselves presentable. He already knows the fear behind our striving and the selfishness mixed into our service.

Today, take a quiet moment before adding another task to your list. Let Jesus meet you beneath your accomplishments. Name what is actually there. Ask him to renew you from the inside, and then return to the good work in front of you. Honest prayer and practical obedience belong together. The hands that serve can be connected to a heart that is learning to receive love.

Personal question

What am I hoping my good works will keep other people, or even me, from noticing about my heart?

Practical response

Spend five minutes in honest prayer. Name one fear, resentment, or desire for approval without defending it. Ask Jesus to meet you there before beginning today’s responsibilities.

Prayer

Jesus, you see all of me. Thank you that I can come to you honestly. Help me receive your love in the places I want to hide. Renew my heart, and let that renewal shape how I serve today. Amen.

This week’s sermon

Good Works Without Love · Bad Religion, Week 2
Watch the October 18 service https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uS_IWUtxM4