Introduction:
I am attempting to answer the difference between religion and faith based upon my study on the Bible as an interlude into faith versus (saving) grace. This is in response to a conversation I had with a friend and wanted to have it written out. I by no means think that this is an extensive study, please feel free to do your study and dig deeper into the foundation; the Truth revealed in Jesus Christ.
Religion - The Common Definition
Religion by many people I have spoken to has been defined as actions, which I can agree that it is more of an action than something passive. Unfortunately, most continue to explain or consider it as an organized system of how to live or be. Essentially the two components people say rules and rituals. We can note this with the Islam belief having a standard of 5 pillars to live by or Jewish people who consider the make up of their faith is by the hundreds of rules to observe. True religion is based on a relationship with God. Most religions if not all I have read about, consider that humans are separated by God and that we need reconciliation to Him. False religion seeks this by observing rules and rituals to get this reconciliation. True religion understands that only God can rectify the separation between us.
Religion - The Christian Perspective
"True religion does have rules and rituals, but there is a crucial difference. In true religion, the rules and rituals are observed out of gratitude for the salvation God has provided – NOT in an effort to obtain that salvation. True religion, which is Biblical Christianity, has rules to obey (do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not lie, etc.) and rituals to observe (water baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper / Communion). Observance of these rules and rituals is not what makes a person right with God. Rather, these rules and rituals are the RESULT of the relationship with God, by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone as the Savior. False religion is doing things (rules and rituals) in order to try to earn God’s favor. True religion is receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and thereby having a right relationship with God – and then doing things (rules and rituals) out of love for God and desire to grow closer to Him." - http://www.gotquestions.org/true-religion.html
Faith - Short Answer
-Webster Dictionary: Belief; the assent of the mind to the truth of what is declared by another, resting solely and implicitly on his authority and veracity; reliance on testimony.
-Bible Dictionary: "1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2This is what the ancients were commended for." Continue reading all of Hebrews 11
No comments:
Post a Comment