Religion Vs. Relationship
“You’re religious?”
I was talking with someone, and that simple question hung in the air. My answer was: I love Jesus.
That moment, and a conversation in a meeting, sparked this thought.
The word... religion.
“Ugh, religion.”
“Religion is weird.”
“I’m not into religion.”
It's a word that sparks a lot of thought and emotion. Just hearing it can turn a lot of people off (maybe you’re about to click the “X” now) and turn them away from the doors of the church and people who identify as Christians.
The Stain of History (And the Misrepresentation)
I admit it: Christianity has a history of deep stains. It has been misrepresented, and far too often, its name has been masqueraded to justify horrific actions by many people.
But let’s be clear: these acts were never done for the sake of God. They were always for the sake of self—power, control, or pride hidden under a spiritual mask.
And there lies the difference:
Religion serves us. It’s about checking boxes, following rules, and earning acceptance.
Relationship serves others. It’s about connecting, giving, and reflecting the love you’ve received.
When you have a genuine relationship with God, you treat people better, with kindness and love—even if you don't agree with them. You’re willing to forgive, to keep trying, and not to give up on others.
The Ultimate Historical Example
To truly understand this divide, look no further than the Bible:
Pharisees (Religion)
Had the system and the rules.
Focused on following the law.
Devoted to killing Christ.
Missed the point completely.
See Jesus’ condemnation in Matthew 23:23: "you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith."
Disciples (Relationship)
Had the connection and humility.
Focused on following Christ.
Devoted to keeping His message alive.
Made mistakes, but their hearts were changed.
The Pharisees were defined by their external world: the system, the schedules, the rules, and the outward appearance. The Disciples, however, were defined by their internal state: the connection, the humility, and the love for the person of Jesus. It all comes back to that simple plea found in so many songs: Just give me Jesus.
Relationship Over Ritual
You don't want religion. Got it. But are you open to a relationship with Jesus that moves far beyond the same-old-same-old? A freedom that truly cracks your life wide open and fills you with a love and joy that is completely new?
This relationship isn't about robotic emotions or a scheduled routine. It's about truly wanting to be in the presence of God and His people.
It’s where fellowship isn’t fake—it flows from the depths of our souls because we are all worshipping the one True King—Jesus.
This is the life I'm after. It’s not about checking the box that says "religious." It’s about living in the boundless love of a King who calls me His.
I understand your hesitancy, even your anger and skepticism, but Christ goes beyond that all. Oh, what a joy that He does! My prayer is that you can find him while he is near, seek him while he is found. (Psalm 27:8: “My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.”)
Even if you feel the smallest tug while reading this, this is my prayer for you:
Father,
Hear their heart, know them, and see them right where they are. May they know and see You, not as a demanding master, but as a loving Father.I pray that they would experience Your glory—a simple, gentle, overwhelming kindness that heals the wounds left by ‘religion.’ Help them to draw near to You, knowing that You will draw near to them (James 4:8). Let their eyes be open and their hearts receptive to Your truth, and may that truth set them free from shame, fear, and skepticism (John 8:32).
May this small moment of faith be the key that unlocks a new life with You, a life defined by a genuine, transforming relationship, because we know that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved (Romans 10:13).
Amen.
