“You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? For, as it is written: ‘The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.’” (vv. 23-24)

You’re tired of it, same as I am.

Hardly a season passes before yet another church person—a pastor, a personality, a member in a body—strays, is found out, and falls. They’re caught stealing, cheating, and lying. It’s made public. And all of it happened while maintaining a public posture of religiousness.

It’s immensely frustrating. It’s heartbreaking. It’s exhausting.

And, what’s worse, it damages the believing church’s witness to the One True God. The wider world slanders Him because of us.

Every one of us needs to remember that our sin isn’t just about us. Our integrity, morality, and faithfulness drive the credibility of our witness—and we discredit it every time we pose with religion yet harbor unrepentant sin. Sin will be exposed! And, when it is, your religious front will make them see Him wrongly.

So repent! Wrestle your temptations in the Spirit! And let your faith-life be more than a front.

More than just your reputation is on the line.

— Tyler