Difference between religion and relationship

[Born_in_Crewe]

How would you define the difference between someone who is 'religious' and someone who has a relationship with Jesus? For example, someone could have a belief in God and pray but maybe they are really only 'religious' because they don't have the relationship with Jesus. I think one of the main differences is trusting in Jesus for salvation, rather than trusting in works.

 

[Jim1999]

The term "religion" to-day suggests that someone has the rote of religiousity, but lacks the twice-born experience. They just go through the ritual in church and it ends at the door.

In the early days, we often talked about the Christian religion in a good connotation. Funny how language changes over time.

In England it was again common for someone to speak as "he is religious" referring to those who are dedicated to Christ, the Bible and the church.

Cheers,

Jim

 

[JustChristian]

The term "religion" to-day suggests that someone has the rote of religiousity, but lacks the twice-born experience. They just go through the ritual in church and it ends at the door.

In the early days, we often talked about the Christian religion in a good connotation. Funny how language changes over time.

In England it was again common for someone to speak as "he is religious" referring to those who are dedicated to Christ, the Bible and the church.

Cheers,

Jim

I agree. It isn't a question of works salvation. It's simply the fact that a born-again Christian will develop a closer and closer relationship with Jesus Christ. He is our model. If we haven't had a true conversion our model will continue to be the world.

 

[annsni]

I heard it described this way:

Religion is man reaching to God.

True Christianity is God reaching to man.

 

[Alcott]

I heard it described this way:
Religion is man reaching to God.
True Christianity is God reaching to man.

I've thought for many years that's reasonable. But as he reaches down to us, either he doesn't actually thump us unless we make ourselves willing targets; or else, he thumps us and we have to say "thanks, I needed that," instead of "that hurt; keep away from me." Either way, we're not totally passive and we do some reaching.

 

[gb93433]

The term "religion" to-day suggests that someone has the rote of religiousity, but lacks the twice-born experience. They just go through the ritual in church and it ends at the door.

In the early days, we often talked about the Christian religion in a good connotation. Funny how language changes over time.

In England it was again common for someone to speak as "he is religious" referring to those who are dedicated to Christ, the Bible and the church.

I have heard a number of preachers distort the word religion and teach something the Bible does not teach.

James 1:26-27, "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."

 

[Marcia]

It depends on how the word "religion" is being used. It means different things to different people, so the context has to be considered. "Religion" can be a neutral word, as when one is asked, "What's your religion?" I don't give them a speech about religion vs. relationship in my answer.

 

[Born_in_Crewe]

I realise ''religion'' as a word can be used in a variety of contexts, but I was meaning in the Christian context where people say ''I don't have a religion, I have a relationship with God and Jesus''.

 

[gb93433]

I realise ''religion'' as a word can be used in a variety of contexts, but I was meaning in the Christian context where people say ''I don't have a religion, I have a relationship with God and Jesus''.

Those people have a religion though.

 

[Born_in_Crewe]

Why do you believe they have a religion, though? Maybe they do, I just get confused with this because it depends what the context is.

 

[TCGreek]

You said it:

"I think one of the main differences is trusting in Jesus for salvation, rather than trusting in works."

That is indeed the BIG difference.

Let no one convince you otherwise. :thumbs:

 

[JustChristian]

You said it:

"I think one of the main differences is trusting in Jesus for salvation, rather than trusting in works."

That is indeed the BIG difference.

Let no one convince you otherwise. :thumbs:

Jhn 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

 

[Marcia]

I realise ''religion'' as a word can be used in a variety of contexts, but I was meaning in the Christian context where people say ''I don't have a religion, I have a relationship with God and Jesus''.

I used to say this to people but it doesn't really mean anything to non-Christians. I think in some cases, it can sound smug. However, when I am explaining Christianity or the gospel, I do talk about the relationship aspect.

 

[Marcia]

Jhn 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

You're not saying this implies salvation by works, are you? We love Jesus after we are saved and then should want to keep his commandments.

 

[gb93433]

Why do you believe they have a religion, though? Maybe they do, I just get confused with this because it depends what the context is.

They have a set of beliefs. They may try to disguise that but they do have a set of beliefs they subscribe to.

 

[JustChristian]

You're not saying this implies salvation by works, are you? We love Jesus after we are saved and then should want to keep his commandments.

Jesus said this not me. Everyone needs to interpret it for themselves. No, I do not interpret it as salvation by works but rather the result of a true born again experience. I do not believe that someone can accept Christ as their Lord and savior and not be changed.