Religion vs Relationship

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers.” Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

“For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day” John 6:40 NIV

Religion vs Relationship Religion is an organized system of worship Founded on common beliefs Organized around ceremonies, rituals and rules Mere Religion is empty and worthless without a Relationship!

Religion vs Relationship Relationship is a personal, intimate connection It’s a common participation in life’s experiences – Matthew 4:18-20; 11:28-30 It’s sharing our deepest thoughts and feelings – John 21:15-19 It’s spending time listening and learning – Luke 10:38-42

Religion Alone Cannot Save Us! We can be very religious and still be lost! We can believe the right message – Matthew 7:21; James 2:19 We can obey the right commands – Matthew 7:22 But if we don’t know Jesus, it’s all for naught! – Matthew 7:23

Religion Alone Cannot Save Us! It’s our Relationship with Jesus that saves us We can not merit salvation! – Romans 3:10-12, 21-26 Salvation is God’s gift to us in Christ Jesus – John 3:16; Romans 6:23; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9 Only through a Relationship with Jesus can we be saved! – John 14:6

How To Build A Relationship It begins when we humbly put our trust in Jesus Trust that He is who He claims to be – John 8:24; 14:6 Trust that He accomplished our salvation on the cross Romans 5:6-10 Trust that He will fulfill what He promised – John 14:1-3

How To Build A Relationship It is developed through the study of God’s Word If you hold to my teachings . . . – John 8:31-32 All Scripture is inspired by God . . . – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

How To Build A Relationship It is strengthened by spending time in Prayer Communication is essential to any relationship Take time to “Have a Little Talk with Jesus” – John 14:8-14

How To Build A Relationship It grows to maturity with faithful obedience Trust and obey . . . – John 14:15-21 Having a relationship with Jesus is the greatest blessing there is in life!