Leaving Beyond – Grounded In Scripture

Have you ever heard, “Jesus does not want religion; He wants relationship?” How did we come to that conclusion? Did we assume it was true? Why? Is it true that Jesus does not like religion?

“True religion is not a matter of form but of power; it is the heart aligned with God, not merely the practice of outward rites.” ~ John Owen

Scripture Does Not Support This Dichotomy

Scripture does not lead us to this conclusion. It is not a matter of relationship or religion. Framing it this way creates a false dichotomy. It is both.

“The life of a Christian is a religious life, but it is also a life of intimate fellowship with God. To separate the two is to misunderstand both.” ~ R.C. Sproul

True vs. False Religion

The real contrast is not religion versus relationship but true versus false religion (James 1:27). Scripture distinguishes between true and false religion, not between relationship and religion as though they are opposed.

“Religion without the spirit of God is empty; relationship without truth is delusion.” ~ John MacArthur

Everyone Has a Relationship With God

We also need to consider that the original claim assumes some are neutral while others have a relationship with God. The truth is that everyone has a relationship with God. The question is: What kind of relationship do we have with God?

Either we are enemies of God, or we are born-again children of God. No one is neutral.

“All men are in relation to God, but only the elect are in covenant with Him through Christ.” ~ Jonathan Edwards

The Danger of Christian Clichés

When we hear Christian clichés such as, “Jesus wants relationship, not religion,” they may make us feel good, but we must ask: Is it Biblical? While such claims may sound appealing, they can lead to unbiblical beliefs and practices.

“A lie wrapped in a pleasing phrase can be more dangerous than blunt falsehood; it seduces the mind before the conscience can warn.” ~ Charles Spurgeon

The Subtle Work of False Teachers

When false teachers create this dichotomy, it is often a subtle effort to turn your heart against the truth and toward trusting them and your feelings. It also positions you to distrust those who use Scripture to warn of error. The false teacher appears close to God, while those warning against them are labeled as having a “religious spirit.”

“False teachers often appeal to emotion and experience over Scripture; discernment requires a return to God’s Word as the ultimate authority.” ~ J.I. Packer

Grace and Peace, y’all.

Soli Deo Gloria

April J. Buchanan