Poluted Hearts

- Chris Pfarr

Today, I want to talk about something that hits close to home: our polluted hearts. Yeah, diving

right in, aren’t we? Well unpack what Scripture says about our thoughts and motivations, then

explore four practical tools we have to start living a life that pleases God.

To kick things off, who here knows about the game BeanBoozled? A few hands? For those who

don’t, it’s like a jelly bean roulette with flavors like Vomit and; Booger. You never know what

you’ll get. It’s like trying to guess what’s inside without any clues—kind of risky, right? Well,

today’s message isn’t about jelly beans, but there’s a connection.

Turn to Matthew 15:1-20. Here, Jesus confronts the Pharisees about their traditions versus

God’s commandments. They were all about external rituals like washing hands, but Jesus digs

deeper, pointing out their hearts were far from God. It’s not what goes into our mouths that

defiles us, but what comes out—from our hearts.

And Jesus isn’t just talking about the Pharisees; he’s talking about us too—our polluted hearts.

Even if you think you’re pretty good inside, Scripture tells a different story:

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves (1 John 1:8).

The heart is deceitful above all things (Jeremiah 17:9).

Nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh (Romans 7:18).

Our hearts, like those gross jelly beans, are tainted. But here’s the good news: through Christ,

God transforms us. He replaces the gross stuff with goodness, like swapping out those awful

flavors for something sweet, like pink Starburst.

So, how does God do this? Here are four practical ways:

1. Time in the Word: Spending time in Scripture reveals God’s character, shows us how to

relate to Him, and teaches us how to love others (Psalm 96:7-8; 100:4; Matthew 22).

2. Vibrant Prayer Life: Look at the lives of heroes like David or Paul—they prayed. Prayer

connects us with God, who listens and responds (Psalm 102:1-2).

3. Lifestyle Worship: Worship isn’t just singing in church—it’s a heart posture. It’s honoring

God in everything we do, every day (Romans 12:1).

4. Part of the Body: We’re all part of Christ’s body, each with a role to play. It’s not about

sideline Christianity but actively living out our faith in community (Ephesians 4:11-13).

In wrapping up, remember: what’s inside will come out. Investing in Scripture, prayer, worship,

and community shapes us to reflect Christ. Let's aim for hearts that mirror His.

Thanks for letting me share with you today. Grace & Peace until next time.

GROSs. AM I RIGHT?