Intro/Outro Song: Perfectly Loved - Rachael Lampa feat. TobyMac
Introduction:
Hello and welcome to Christ Talk Canada’s 22nd episode. I am your Host Pastor Michael and today's podcast is focused on a very important topic where we will be discussing Faith vs Religion and why Faith always wins. As a Christian, I know that this is a topic that often comes up in conversations and debates, and I'm excited to share with you what the Bible says about it. So, let's dive into prayer to open up the topic.
Faith Vs. Religion: Understanding the Difference
Faith and religion are two concepts that are often used interchangeably. However, they are not the same thing. Faith refers to a personal belief in something or someone, while religion refers to a set of beliefs, practices, and traditions that are shared by a group of people. In this essay, we will explore the difference between faith and religion and why having a personal and intimate relationship with God is what God wants us to do.
Faith: A Personal Belief
Faith is a personal belief in something or someone. In the Bible, faith is defined as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1, NKJV). This means that faith is believing in something even though we cannot see it or touch it. Faith is a personal conviction that is rooted in our heart, and it is not dependent on external factors.
Religion: A Set of Beliefs and Practices
Religion, on the other hand, refers to a set of beliefs, practices, and traditions that are shared by a group of people. Religion is a way of life that is governed by rules and regulations. In the Bible, religion is often associated with the law, which was given to the Israelites to guide their conduct (Galatians 3:24-25, NKJV). Religion can be a powerful force for good, but it can also be a source of conflict and division.
Biblical Evidence: Faith vs. Religion
The Bible makes it clear that having faith is more important than following religious rituals. Jesus criticized the religious leaders of his time for their outward show of piety while neglecting the weightier matters of the law, such as justice, mercy, and faith (Matthew 23:23, NKJV). In the book of James, we read that faith without works is dead (James 2:17, NKJV). This means that true faith is demonstrated by our actions, not just by our words.
Jesus himself taught that having a personal and intimate relationship with God is what God wants us to do. In John 17:3, Jesus prays, "And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent" (NKJV). Knowing God is not just about knowing about Him, it's about having a personal relationship with Him.
In the book of Hebrews, we read that faith is what pleases God (Hebrews 11:6, NKJV). It is not our religious rituals or good works that please God, but our faith in Him. And this faith is not something that we can manufacture on our own; it is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9, NKJV). When we place our faith in God, we are saved by His grace and not by our own efforts.
Once again thank you to all my listeners and followers for your love and support throughout this journey. If you would like to reach me you can do so on the website https://christtalk.ca or by email info@christtalk.ca
May the Lord Jesus Christ Bless you always, and may you forever walk in the Spirit of God.