This week, Pastor Ben continued his series on the difference between religion and true relationship with God, highlighting that the Christian life should not be a cycle of striving for approval. He emphasized that while obedience shouldn't be about earning God's love, it should reflect it instead. Using 1 Peter 1:13-14, he warned against slipping back into old patterns, reminding us that holiness is not based on our efforts but on the grace found in Jesus. Unlike the Old Testament's fear-driven practices surrounding the High Priest, Jesus empowered us to carry God's holiness into the world, making us living stones in His spiritual temple. As a chosen people and royal priests, we are called to serve with a king's heart and rule with a servant's heart, embodying both authority and humility. 11/30/2025 Vida Church