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How Does Christianity and Religion Relate?
Too many times the words "Christianity" and "Religion" are used
interchangeably. The term "religion" can be used in so many different venues of non-Christian
ways that the term is incapable of correlation with Christianity.
Just recently I received a note that declared, "I am very religious,
but this thing of Jesus and sin is just outmoded." That can only mean that the person's Religion
has nothing to do with Christianity. It also means that this person is lost and out of God's
fellowship.
Each and every religion is an entity onto itself. From Confucianism,
Buddhism, Zenism, Voodooism, and Satanism to the worship of success, money or even self,
they all fall into the general term of religion.
It is impossible to confuse the term Christian with any other form
of religion. In Scripture (Acts 11:26)
we find the first time "Christian" was ever used and it has never changed its meaning
nor can it be interpeted in any other way. "Christian" is defined as one who believes in the Christ
and is a follower of His Way. Jesus, the Son of the Living God, is the Christ!
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh
unto the Father, but by me."John 14:6
If any man wants to come to the Father he also wants a relationship with Him that
will ultimately lead to an eternal life with Him. That is not an option with any of the aforementioned
"religions". Only with the Christ will there be a door into Heaven. Jesus Also said, "I am the door:
by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."
John 10:9
If you are so inclined to claim you are a religious person and if your
faith is in Jesus, then I would ask you to rethink your position. Separate yourself from the
confused, stand true to your belief and proudly proclaim that you are a Christian.
If you don't know Jesus as your personal saviour, I invite you to
search the Scriptures and your heart. Let Jesus into
your heart and allow Him
to guide you into a newness of life and love. Let Him prepare you for an eternity of fellowship with
my Father. Ask Him to save you from your sins and trust that He will do as He has promised.
Matthew 11:28-30 and
John 6:37
May you walk in the Spirit constantly; and
consistently be found giving glory and praise to your Lord and Saviour,
Jesus Christ.
Heavenly Father,
Bless thy word to the hearts of those that read the
Scriptural passages and help them to better understand and praise you.
Your glory is all that matters. I thank thee that thou hast promised Thy
help to those who truly want to know thee. Let the words here strike the
hearts of the readers and open them to thy love and guidance.
Amen
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