Religion vs. Relationship

When I was growing up, I always heard the phrase, "Christianity isn't a religion, it's a relationship."  At the time I wasn't sure I really understood the phrase, mostly because the people said that, seemed to continue to make Christianity all about the religion.  As I've gotten old and studied Jesus more and more, I've come to very much agree with this statement, but I think in a lot of ways we often don't do a very good job of living it out.  Most of us still operate with more of a "religion" mindset.

I think in a practical sense, when I say "religion" I use Bruxy Cavey's definition.  "Religion is a prescribed set of rules, regulations and rituals that connect us to God."  There are a number of different problems with religion as our bridge to God:

1. The only reason it was ever necessary was because of sin.  We don't read about any religion in the Garden of Eden.  Adam and Eve had a direct connection to God.  That was God's intent.  The purpose for religion throughout the Old Testament was a temporary way to bridge that gap.
2. Of course, sin is the big problem.  Sin is a relational thing.  When I sin against my wife, our relationship is damaged.  Religion was the bridge, but if we look in the book of Hebrews, it was never intended to take the place of the real relationship.  Hebrews 10 says, "The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship."  Religion was only a place-holder.  In fact, Paul even says the real purpose of the Law was to show people how much they fall short and need grace. (see Galatians)
3. Jesus made religion, as the mediator to God, obsolete.  Religion can become a huge burden for people and I think we, as religious leaders, can sometimes give the impression that the point of the spiritual life is to be good church people.  But I actually think sometimes being good "church people" can actually hinder us from being true followers of Jesus.

Now I don't want you to misunderstand what I'm saying here.  Some people will rant against any form of organized religion.  I won't do that.  I believe the church (including some of the ritual) can be very valuable in our spiritual walk with Jesus--it's just that those rituals and rules should never become the focus of our faith.  Worship service connects us with God.  Communion is a very real and tangible way we can experience grace.  Being involved in the community of the church is an absolute necessity for us.  But the end-result is that we find life in Jesus.  I really like The Message's translation of Matthew 11:28-30,

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

I think Eugene Petersen really captures the message of Jesus in this translation.  Seek relationship with Jesus and find your life there!