Faith without religion.
Embracing Authenticity: Aligning Heart and Faith
In the latest episode of our live broadcast, Shawn shares a deeply personal revelation about his identity and faith journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in both belief and expression. As we approach significant changes in our ministry in early 2022, Shawn invites everyone to join as founding members, stressing that no one is above the need to participate equally in this community.
Shawn reflects on a recent experience where he was asked to perform a wedding, highlighting concerns about his appearance among a predominantly LDS audience. He contrasts this with his own journey from valuing external appearances to prioritizing the condition of the heart. He believes that true faith should manifest in a consistent alignment between one’s inner beliefs and outward expressions.
Drawing from Romans 10:9-10, Shawn explains that salvation is not merely about verbal confession but is rooted in genuine belief from the heart. He emphasizes that true righteousness comes from heartfelt faith in Jesus’ resurrection, which naturally leads to a confession of faith. This connection between heart and mouth is crucial; one cannot truly confess without first believing.
Shawn introduces the Greek term “homologeo,” meaning to confess or profess, which signifies that the words spoken should reflect the beliefs held in the heart. He warns against hypocrisy, where one’s outward expressions do not align with inner convictions. He cites Matthew 7:23 to illustrate that mere verbal acknowledgment of Jesus does not guarantee salvation if it is not backed by true belief.
Ultimately, Shawn encourages living a life of integrity, where one’s external expressions—be it through baptism, tattoos, or personal style—are authentic reflections of one’s inner self. He concludes with a powerful declaration of his identity, embracing a life of consistency and truth. This episode serves as a call to all believers to examine the alignment of their hearts and words, fostering a community grounded in genuine faith.