Are you following religion or Christ
Following religion and following Christ are two different things. Religion can be defined as a set of beliefs, practices, and rituals that are associated with a particular faith or community. On the other hand, following Christ is about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and living out His teachings.
Mark 7:8 reads “Neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men.”
Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and scribes, quoting the prophet Isaiah, saying, "You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions." This passage serves as a reminder to prioritize the teachings of God over human traditions and to ensure that our actions align with His will. Jesus emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and obedience to God's word above all else.
In Matthew 15:3, 6, Jesus responded, "Why do you break God's command for the sake of tradition?... Thus, you disregard God's word for the sake of tradition."
This excerpt emphasizes the significance of remaining faithful to fundamental principles and teachings, rather than being consumed by rituals or traditions that might divert us from the true essence of our beliefs. It serves as a poignant reminder to consistently focus on the core message above external customs.
One way to know if you are following religion or Christ is to examine your motives and actions. Are you motivated by a desire to conform to the expectations of your religious community, or are you motivated by a desire to live out the teachings of Jesus Christ? Are you more concerned with religious rituals and traditions, or are you more concerned with loving God and loving others?
Another way to know if you are following religion or Christ is to look at the fruits of your faith. Are you growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as the Bible teaches? Or are you more focused on external appearances and legalistic rules?
Philippians 2:5 reads "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."
In this verse, Paul urges the Philippians to emulate the humble and selfless attitude of Jesus Christ. He encourages them to practice love, compassion, and understanding towards others just as Jesus did during His time on Earth. By embodying the qualities of Christ, believers can strive towards a life filled with kindness, generosity, and grace. This powerful message serves as a reminder for all to follow the example set by Jesus and to approach life with a heart full of love and a spirit of humility.
Be Christ-like in your actions, showing compassion and empathy to those around you. Emulate the qualities of kindness, forgiveness, and understanding in your interactions with others. Strive to be a beacon of light and love, spreading positivity and hope wherever you go. By embodying the teachings of Christ in your daily life, you can make a meaningful impact on the world and inspire others to do the same.
Ultimately, following Christ is about having a personal relationship with Him and living out His teachings in your daily life. It is not about following a set of rules or rituals, but about loving God and loving others as yourself.
Please join us for Sunday service at 9:30 AM. Come and be blessed. Bring a friend.
Mark 7:8 reads “Neglecting the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men.”
Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and scribes, quoting the prophet Isaiah, saying, "You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions." This passage serves as a reminder to prioritize the teachings of God over human traditions and to ensure that our actions align with His will. Jesus emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and obedience to God's word above all else.
In Matthew 15:3, 6, Jesus responded, "Why do you break God's command for the sake of tradition?... Thus, you disregard God's word for the sake of tradition."
This excerpt emphasizes the significance of remaining faithful to fundamental principles and teachings, rather than being consumed by rituals or traditions that might divert us from the true essence of our beliefs. It serves as a poignant reminder to consistently focus on the core message above external customs.
One way to know if you are following religion or Christ is to examine your motives and actions. Are you motivated by a desire to conform to the expectations of your religious community, or are you motivated by a desire to live out the teachings of Jesus Christ? Are you more concerned with religious rituals and traditions, or are you more concerned with loving God and loving others?
Another way to know if you are following religion or Christ is to look at the fruits of your faith. Are you growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as the Bible teaches? Or are you more focused on external appearances and legalistic rules?
Philippians 2:5 reads "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."
In this verse, Paul urges the Philippians to emulate the humble and selfless attitude of Jesus Christ. He encourages them to practice love, compassion, and understanding towards others just as Jesus did during His time on Earth. By embodying the qualities of Christ, believers can strive towards a life filled with kindness, generosity, and grace. This powerful message serves as a reminder for all to follow the example set by Jesus and to approach life with a heart full of love and a spirit of humility.
Be Christ-like in your actions, showing compassion and empathy to those around you. Emulate the qualities of kindness, forgiveness, and understanding in your interactions with others. Strive to be a beacon of light and love, spreading positivity and hope wherever you go. By embodying the teachings of Christ in your daily life, you can make a meaningful impact on the world and inspire others to do the same.
Ultimately, following Christ is about having a personal relationship with Him and living out His teachings in your daily life. It is not about following a set of rules or rituals, but about loving God and loving others as yourself.
Please join us for Sunday service at 9:30 AM. Come and be blessed. Bring a friend.
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