Often, people say, "It is about relationship, not religion". Not so fast! It is about both. The Bible speaks of "pure religion" (James 1:27) which infers religion can be impure, just as there are "true worshippers" (John 4:23) inferring worship can be untrue or vain (Mt. 15:9). Christ is Savior of the obedient (Hebrews 5:9). If we love Jesus, we'll keep His commandments (John 14:15). Relationship and Obedience = Pure Religion and True Worship. Otherwise, one has not God (2 John 1:9).
Actually that is not true. Common sense does not deny my faith in Jesus Christ. Common sense is schooled by our differing worldviews. What I believe effects my common sense; what you believe effects yours. It all starts with our worldviews, not something elusive like "common sense."
Certainly, Brad, you understand that I am in no way denying the basic denotative meanings of the word "religion" but rather am using the word in its connotative function to make a point, i.e., faith is more than a mere religion. Thanks for commenting.
--noun 1. a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.
2. a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion.
Often, people say, "It is about relationship, not religion". Not so fast! It is about both. The Bible speaks of "pure religion" (James 1:27) which infers religion can be impure, just as there are "true worshippers" (John 4:23) inferring worship can be untrue or vain (Mt. 15:9). Christ is Savior of the obedient (Hebrews 5:9). If we love Jesus, we'll keep His commandments (John 14:15). Relationship and Obedience = Pure Religion and True Worship. Otherwise, one has not God (2 John 1:9).
vhopson 3 months ago
Actually that is not true. Common sense does not deny my faith in Jesus Christ. Common sense is schooled by our differing worldviews. What I believe effects my common sense; what you believe effects yours. It all starts with our worldviews, not something elusive like "common sense."
WindsorsChild 3 years ago
Certainly, Brad, you understand that I am in no way denying the basic denotative meanings of the word "religion" but rather am using the word in its connotative function to make a point, i.e., faith is more than a mere religion. Thanks for commenting.
WindsorsChild 3 years ago
You can keep telling yourself it's a relationship with God but common sense will keep telling you it's a religion.
bcraig5 3 years ago
re·li·gion
--noun 1. a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs.
2. a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion.
bcraig5 3 years ago
One of these days God's wrath will again be poured out upon the wicked of this earth.
Rescue the perishing, duty demands it--
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them,
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died.
"As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,
even so must the Son of man be lifted up." (John 3:14)
GOD BLESS BROTHER FROM ENGLAND AND PAKISTAN AMEN
JESUSISLORDAMEN 5 years ago
Thank you for your comment. Jesus is coming soon.
WindsorsChild 5 years ago