Religion vs. Relationship

  I am not a fan of religion. That statement might seem weird to some seeing that I am a pastor. The fact of the matter is that religion is often just a façade. Religion is a man-made device to try and fill a hole in us that only a relationship with God can fill. So I am not a fan of religion, but I pursue a relationship with Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour.

  Religion has its origin in the human heart, but a relationship with God has its origin in His love. Religion is often for our own selfish ends, but a relationship with God is lived in a desire for His will. Religion is promoted as being for the good of others, but a relationship with God is the only thing that will help people to begin with. Religion is often contrary to the Word of God, but a relationship with God is grounded in His Word. Religion is nothing but a snare that enslaves people, but a relationship with God sets people free. Religion cares not for purity or truth, but a relationship with God is just and holy. Religion is dangerous because it often has the appearance of being right, but only a relationship with God is true.

John 17:17 - “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

  Being a Son or Daughter of God is not about going through rituals and traditions. Being in the family of God is all about believing in the resurrection of Christ and that He paid for your sin, being repentant of your old sinful life, developing a relationship with Him and drawing closer to Jesus a little more every day.

I John 3:1 – “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”