NOT INTERESTED IN RELIGION

NOT INTERESTED IN RELIGION

READ:

John 5:18, 37-47

How often I wanted to gather

your children together, as a

hen gathers her chicks under

her wings, but you were not

willing! –Matthew 23:37

A radio ad for a church caught my attention:  “Because you’ve heard about Christianity, you might not be interested in religion.  Well, it might surprise you-Jesus wasn’t interested in religion either.  But He was big on relationship and teaching us to love one another.”  It continued, “You may not like everything about our church, but we offer authentic relationship, and we’re learning to love God and each other.  You’re welcome to visit.”

This church may have overstated things about Jesus and religion because Scripture does speak of “true religion” in James 1:27 as helpful deeds toward others.  But Jesus did have difficulties with religious people of His day.  He said the Pharisees, guided by tradition and rules not by love for the Lord, “outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside [they] are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness” (Matthew 23:28).  They didn’t have the love of God in their hearts (John 5:42).  Jesus wanted relationship with them, but they were “not willing to come to [Him]” (v.40).

If being “religious” means following a set of rules so we can look good-instead of enjoying a relationship with the Savior-Jesus isn’t interested.  He offers forgiveness and love to all who want an intimate relationship with Him. –Anne Cetas

True religion is to know

The love that Christ imparts;

True religion is to show

This love to burdened hearts. –D. DeHaan

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There is a longing in every heart

that only Jesus can satisfy.

INSIGHT

In John 5, Jesus once again engaged in debate with the religious leaders of Israel.  Here, He called three trustworthy witnesses to His defense-the Father (v.37), Scripture (v.39), and Moses (vv.45-47).  Instead of discrediting Him, theses witnesses verified His claims of Sonship and called into question those who rejected Him.

Have  a blessed day.

God Our Creator’s Love Always

Unity & Peace