Religion and Christianity
Religion and Christianity are not the same! One definition of religion among many is, “a particular system of belief in a god or gods and the activities connected with this system.” The term ‘religion’ can be linked with any large or small groups of ideas inspired by ordinary men. In general, these flawed precepts are a feeble attempt to identify with God through their own vain philosophies. “Don’t let others spoil your faith and joy with their philosophies, their wrong and shallow answers built on men’s thoughts and ideas, instead of on what Christ has said.” (Col. 2:8) Religion comes in many deceptive forms but in most cases can be attributed to the Prince of Darkness whose singular purpose is to deceive the multitude. “Many false teachers are in the world now. They refuse to say that Jesus Christ came to earth and became a man. Anyone who refuses to accept this fact is a false teacher and the enemy of Christ.”(2 John 1:7) Many preachers and teachers in the world today practice religion. Not unlike the Pharisees of Jesus day who were anti-Christ in doctrine but adorned themselves in distinctive clothing to appear religious. These imposters are in churches, on TV and radio, and even infiltrate Sunday schools and home Bible studies. “Yes, woe upon you hypocrites. For you go to all lengths to make one convert, and then turn him into twice the son of hell you are yourselves.”(Matt. 23:15) Paul warned us about these deceivers “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”(2 Tim. 3:5)
Christianity, on the other hand, is a transformation. You were born a natural citizen of this world and then by a spiritual conversion reborn into the family of God. Jesus was clear about this supernatural change.“The only life people get from their human parents is physical. But the new life that the Spirit gives a person is spiritual. Don’t be surprised that I told you, ‘You must be born again.”(John 3:6,7) What Christianity is not: a political affiliation, a good idea to consider, an elite position that only a few can obtain. Christianity is not an emotional feel-good journey or an escape from the trials and troubles of this life. Christianity is not a religion; it is the supernatural birth of a new person.“When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!”(2 Cor. 5:17) Christianity is a matter of the heart!
In this world, there are many religions, but only one Christ. He was conceived by God to suffer the death penalty so we, the transgressors, could be pardoned of all sin. “Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in Him would not be lost but have eternal life.”(John 3:16) You can experience a spiritual rebirth by simply accepting Jesus for who He is, and not be ashamed to say so. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” (Ro. 10:9) Once you make this decision, you will begin to notice a change in how you think and feel about everyday matters and will have an earnest desire to know more about Jesus. Remember, lip-service doesn’t work; it’s a matter of the heart! For more about Gods plan for your life read “Study More” found on this website.
