This
church may have overstated things about Jesus and religion because Scripture
does speak of “true religion” in James 1:27 as helpful deeds toward others. But
Jesus did have difficulties with religious people of His day. He said the
Pharisees, guided by tradition and rules not by love for the Lord, “outwardly
appear righteous to men, but inside [they] are full of hypocrisy and
lawlessness” (Matt. 23:28). They didn’t have the love of God in their hearts
(John 5:42). Jesus wanted relationship with them, but they were “not willing to
come to [Him]” (v.40).
If being
“religious” means following a set of rules so we can look good—instead of
enjoying a relationship with the Savior—Jesus isn’t interested. He offers
forgiveness and love to all who want an intimate relationship with Him.
There is
a longing in every heart that only God can satisfy. (RBC)
