Unholy Morality

Unholy Morality: Foundations of Faith

Ever notice how some of the most religious people can be the most miserable? There’s a reason for that. In his letter to Timothy, Paul drops a truth bomb that should make us all stop and think: “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” Here’s the twist—these demonic teachings weren’t pushing people toward wild living in Ephesus (which was basically the Vegas of the ancient world). Instead, they were pushing extreme religious rules: “Don’t get married! Don’t eat certain foods!” Talk about a plot twist. Satan’s greatest deception isn’t always getting us to break the rules. Sometimes it’s getting us to create new ones God never intended. Think about it. How many times have we made Christianity about what we don’t do? Don’t dress like that. Don’t listen to that music. Don’t hang out with those people. And suddenly, following Jesus becomes a rigid rule set instead of a revolutionary relationship. Paul reminds us that “everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.” This is radical. God’s creation isn’t the problem—our hearts are. Jesus didn’t come to give us a new set of rules but to restore our relationship with the Father. That’s why he ate and drank with sinners while remaining completely holy. True holiness isn’t about withdrawal from the world but about engaging it with thanksgiving and prayer. So here’s the challenge: Stop living by fear-based rules and start living by faith-based relationship. When you engage culture, ask, “Can I receive this with thanksgiving? Does this align with God’s Word? Does my freedom in Christ build others up?” That’s not just good religion. That’s good news.

–Caleb McCaughan, Pulpit Minister

Dinner Table Conversations: 

Adult & Teen Table Talk: 

• Paul warns about “deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” How comfortable are you discussing spiritual warfare in today’s world? Why might our culture be hesitant to address this aspect of faith?
• The sermon mentions that Satan’s strategy in Ephesus wasn’t to promote immorality but extreme legalism. Where do you see examples of unhealthy legalism in churches today?
• How do you personally determine when a practice or belief is a matter of personal conviction versus a universal Christian standard? 

Little Learners’ Table Talk: 

• God made everything good! Can you name five good things God created that make you happy?
• We heard that we should pray before eating to thank God for our food. Why do you think it’s important to say “thank you” to God?

Foundations of Faith: Unholy Morality