AGBEMƆ VAVÃ (NYATEƑE TƆ) LA

BIBLE TEXTS:

ISAIAH 58:1-12, 1CORINTHIANS 2:1-12, MATTHEW 5:13-20

The theme for our reflection is “The True Way of Life.”

This raises an important question: What truly constitutes the way of life in the sight of God? Is it religious activity, outward discipline, or strict observance of rituals? The Scriptures help us to see that the true way of life is far deeper and more demanding than outward religiosity.

True Religion According to God – (Isaiah 58:1–12)

In Isaiah 58, the prophet exposes the false understanding of religion among the people of Israel. The Jews considered themselves righteous because they carefully observed the daily rituals prescribed by the Law. However, God, through Isaiah, makes it clear that despite these religious practices, they were still living in sin.

Their fasting was not rooted in humility or sincere repentance. Instead, they fasted in the hope that God would be impressed by their actions. Even while fasting, they oppressed their workers, quarrelled among themselves, and displayed their piety in public for recognition. Such fasting, God declares, is worthless in His sight.

God reveals what He truly desires:  that His people stop oppressing others, loosen the chains of injustice, and care for the poor and needy. When they cease treating others with contempt and begin to show compassion, God promises to respond to their prayers. When they sacrifice their comfort for the hungry, the oppressed, and the suffering, God will bless them with renewed strength, spiritual vitality, and restoration.

The message is clear: right motive matters before God. True worship honours God in all our dealings, not as a means of personal gain, but as a sincere expression of obedience and love.

Let us see, Christ’s People in the World – (Matthew 5:13–20)

Jesus describes His followers as salt and light in the world. Salt preserves food from decay and gives it flavour. In the same way, Christ’s people are called to resist the corrupting influence of sin and contribute positively to the moral and spiritual health of society.

If we as believers of Christ fail to discipline ourselves and maintain this “salt-like” quality, we will become ineffective in God’s service. A tasteless salt is useless.

Light:

Jesus also declares that His followers are the light of the world. Like a city set on a hill, they can not be hidden. Like a lamp placed on a stand, they are meant to give light to all. We as Christians are therefore not called to withdraw from society, but to live and work within it in such a way that others are drawn to know and worship God.

At the same time, Scripture reminds us that salvation is not by works, but by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. The righteousness God desires cannot be achieved by merely keeping rules and regulations. It flows from an inward transformation that begins with faith and repentance, and grows through genuine love, obedience, and submission to Jesus Christ.

God’s Wisdom and the True Way to Life – (1 Corinthians 2:1–12)

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul highlights the contrast between worldly wisdom and spiritual wisdom. He reminds them that when he first came to them, he did not rely on eloquence or human philosophy. Instead, he preached the gospel plainly, centred on Christ crucified.

For Paul, true spirituality is grounded in the wisdom of God—a wisdom that makes human wisdom appear weak and insignificant. It was the absence of this divine wisdom that led the world to crucify Christ.

Those who possess the wisdom of God are blessed beyond measure. This wisdom cannot be grasped by human intellect alone. Only those who have received the Spirit of God can understand the mind and purposes of God.

Application

1. Examine your motives – Are your acts of worship driven by genuine love for God or by a desire for recognition and reward?
2. Live out your faith practically – Let your Christianity be seen in justice, kindness, and care for the vulnerable.
3. Be salt and light daily – Influence your home, workplace, church, and community with godly character.
4. Depend on God’s wisdom – Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Conclusion

The true way of life is not found in empty religious practices, outward appearances, or human wisdom. It is found in a transformed heart that seeks justice, loves mercy, walks humbly with God, reflects Christ’s light in the world, and depends fully on the wisdom revealed by the Holy Spirit. True life flows from genuine faith expressed through compassionate living and obedient service to God. Shalom.

Closing Prayer

Gracious and Merciful God,

We thank You for revealing to us the true way to life through Your Word and through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Forgive us where we have relied on outward religion instead of inward transformation. Renew our hearts, purify our motives, and teach us to walk in justice, compassion, and humility. Help us to be salt and light in a broken world, and grant us the wisdom of Your Spirit to live lives that glorify You. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Rev. Sylvanus Yao Kpodonu. (SKY)