Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me.” John 14:6 LSB
The Bible doesn’t say anything about whether we should be Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, or non-denominational. When the book of Revelation describes heaven, it doesn’t say anything about us being sectioned off according to our religion. Jesus wanted people to follow Him, it’s not about religion.
Our former pastor used to joke that when someone asked him what he would be if he weren’t Southern Baptist, his response would be, “Well, I’d be ashamed of myself!” Of course, he was joking, but he was quick to tell people he wasn’t a religious person. What he meant by that was he was more concerned about his relationship with Jesus Christ than his religion.
When we are called up to heaven, what will matter is if our name is written in the Lamb’s book of life. This is what determines whether we are granted or denied entry into heaven. Only those who are truly saved will have their names entered in the lamb’s book of life.
When we live on this earth, we have many relationships. Some are healthy and some are not. Our relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important we will ever have. So, how healthy is your relationship with Jesus? He is described in Revelation as the bridegroom and the church as the bride.
We consider a marital relationship to be healthy when there is an open line of communication. Do you set aside time each day to communicate with Jesus? By this I mean, do you spend time daily in prayer and Bible study. I’m not just talking about reading a verse or two I’m talking about studying your Bible. The best way to study your Bible is by attending church, but not only the sermon, the Bible study. Many churches have Sunday School or some type of Bible study in smaller groups. This is a good way to come to understand what’s in the Bible. The Bible is God’s love letter to us. How can we have a healthy relationship with Him if we refuse to read His love letter to us?
He gave His life for you, do you love Him enough to surrender your life to Him? In John 15:13 Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, than one lay down his life for his friends.” He goes on to say we are His friends if we abide by His commands.
In any religion you choose, you need to mindful of their doctrine. The church’s doctrine refers to what they teach and what they believe. If their doctrine doesn’t line up with the Bible get out of there. Find a good Bible teaching church. This is why Bible study is so important. Be leery of a religion or church that doesn’t encourage Bible study.
Beware of false religions. We are told in Matthew 7:15, “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Pray for wisdom and discernment to see through false teachers. Matthew 7:20 says we will know them by their fruits.
We are responsible for testing the spirits and not trusting every spirit (1 John 4:1-3). We are told many times in the Bible not to be deceived.
James says in 1:27, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” If we are in a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ, we should imitate Him (Ephesians 5:1).
Does your church produce good fruit. Do they reach out to serve others? Beware of a church that is inwardly focused. In Mark 16:15-16, Jesus said, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Check your religion. Does it line up with God’s word? Check yourself. Are you in a good church but not being such a good member? Are you doing your part in the church? Are you getting involved in Bible studies and outreaches?
It’s not about the religion, it’s about the relationship with Jesus Christ. Be sure yours is solid and committed before it’s too late.
Have a great day!