Works Based Salvation or “Getting Steps In”

I’m convinced that the mere act of walking outside has become a burden these days. People no longer view a walk as relaxation; a way to enjoy God’s creation. That’s a real shame. It’s become a chore, a way of “getting steps in”. We hear this concept discussed in-person and online. Doctors push it. You need to get 10,000 steps in daily…really? Or what?

There’s an unnatural pressure associated with this philosophy. Which brings us to the church. “Getting steps in there”. I attended one brick and mortar church requiring accountability texts. This was a real turn-off for me. My belief is that I am accountable to Christ, not Susie (changed name). I don’t even know her, why would I defend my actions to her in a group chat. Strange. Personal testimonies were required before a congregation of about 50 people. No thanks. I’ll pass. They had to nerve to say that a person would be accepted into the congregation by vote. Are you serious? Can you imagine the devastation of someone rejected by them? Christ would never turn away a truly repentant person. Heck, we are all sinners in need of repentance:

Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Good works come intentionally from the humble heart of the Born-Again. As we grow more and more Christ-like, we personify him in society at large. This presence is not to be artificially-induced by a brick and mortar church’s rituals and that church certainly shouldn’t be acting as judge and jury; treating visitors like lepers:

Matthew 25:35 KJV

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

-Melanie DiLeo