In Western Christianity, the word religion is often treated almost like a cuss word. Phrases like “You don’t want to have a religious spirit” or “Christianity is a relationship, not a religion” are commonly heard.
Despite this, I proudly acknowledge that I am a religious person. Why? Because I believe religion is how we express and nurture our relationship with God.
Religion provides structure—a way for us to show our love for God and hear from Him. Unlike our relationships with friends and family, our relationship with God requires a different approach. We can’t have a face-to-face conversation, give God a hug, or play a game with Him. While God is always with us, these activities aren’t the same as experiencing them with Him. Religion serves as a framework to facilitate this divine relationship.
The Divine and Human Nature of Religion
Many rituals practiced by God’s people over the centuries were directly given by Him. This is especially evident in the Old Testament. The books of Exodus and Leviticus contain detailed instructions about how the Israelites were to relate to God. A careful reading reveals how specific and intentional God was in prescribing these practices.
However, some religious rituals arise from human traditions rather than direct Scriptural commands. These practices are often born out of human efforts to honor God and provide meaning to His people. Though not Biblically mandated, these traditions can still be valuable in expressing faith and worship.
The Christian Approach to Religion and Tradition
As a follower of Jesus, I understand that the laws and rituals given to Israel were designed for a specific purpose: to set them apart as God’s chosen people and help them represent Him in the world. For instance, the animal sacrifices that renewed Israel’s covenant relationship with God are no longer necessary because we live under a New Covenant.
This New Covenant, established through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, invites us to renew our commitment through practices like Communion. This ritual, given to us by Jesus, is part of the religious framework that enables us to nurture our relationship with God.
Additionally, I appreciate certain traditions that have developed over time, such as celebrating Christmas or gathering for worship in church buildings. While not commanded in Scripture, these traditions enrich our worship and deepen our connection with God.
Religion’s Purpose: Transformation
Beyond facilitating our relationship with God, religion serves another essential purpose: transformation. Christian rituals and traditions are not just about connecting with God; they are tools to help us become the people God created us to be.
James speaks to this in his letter:
"If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you" (James 1:26-27, NLT).
James reminds us that religion is not about going through the motions. It’s about transformation. True religion develops self-control, fosters compassion for the needy, and cultivates purity in a world full of sin. Without these outcomes, our religious practices are empty and meaningless.
Faith: The Key to True Religion
The effectiveness of religion—or any spiritual discipline—depends on faith. Faith is our choice to commit to and trust God. Without faith, religion becomes a hollow shell of rituals and traditions. Without faith, life’s trials and tragedies lack purpose. Without faith, God’s wisdom—revealed in Scripture—is reduced to mere advice. Faith breathes life into religion, enabling it to transform us.
God cannot change our lives or restore us to true life unless we trust Him. Ultimately, it’s not about simply being religious; it’s about being faithful. This leads us to two critical questions:
Who am I faithful to?
Will I trust Him with my life?
If our answers aren’t “Jesus” and “yes,” our religion might just be worthless. True religion, empowered by faith, is a gift from God. It draws us closer to Him and shapes us into the people He created us to be.
