In this powerful message titled “Inside Out,” Reverend Ron McDougald explores the true nature of holiness through the lens of Matthew 15:10-28 (with Psalm 67 also read). Drawing from Jesus’ teaching that what defiles a person comes from the heart—not external practices like hand-washing—Rev. McDougald challenges listeners to move beyond surface-level religion.
He shares personal stories from childhood (including a memorable visit with a friend whose mother’s outward “holiness” standards contrasted sharply with her actions) and reflections on Pharisees, rules, rituals, good works, and “joining the club.” The sermon examines three common but insufficient ways people often pursue holiness:
- Relying on rituals and rules
- Trying to earn it through busyness and good works
- Finding identity simply by belonging to the right group or church
True holiness, he emphasizes, is an inward work of the Holy Spirit—humble, transformative, and marked by the love, grace, and reach of Jesus. It produces changed hearts that overflow in genuine care for others, not just outward appearances or religious activity.
Scripture Readings:
Psalm 67
Matthew 15:10-28
Key Themes:
- Holiness as “set apart” – but from the inside out
- The danger of “holier-than-thou” attitudes and the “inner ring” (drawing on C.S. Lewis)
- Rituals, rules, works, and membership as insufficient foundations
- The transforming power of Christ’s Spirit producing real scriptural holiness
- A call to examine our own hearts and pursue inward change
Preached at Mount Pleasant Methodist Church
13802 Mt Pleasant Rd, Vancleave, MS
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We invite you to reflect: Are you pursuing outward performance or the inward work of God that makes us truly holy? May the Lord create in each of us a clean heart and renew a right spirit.
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