September 17

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

This verse teaches us that true Christianity does not consist in outward or external ceremonies, rules and rituals, but rather is the indwelling Holy Spirit producing a life of joy, peace, and righteousness. The unregenerate nature easily makes religion to consist of outward pomp and ceremony appealing to the senses of sight, hearing, taste, touch, etc., but it is another thing entirely to have the living Christ dwelling within, producing the fruits of the Spirit, “love, joy and peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance.” Galatians 5:22 The kingdom of God is the inward life of the Holy Spirit which comes about as a result of repentance, and faith in Jesus Christ. It is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.

Commentary by Francis L. Harris

"...what must I do to be saved?" Acts 16:30