The Lodestar

In matters of faith, it is vital to understand the difference between practising religion and receiving salvation. While religion offers structure and rituals, it is merely a vessel for spiritual expression. True salvation, according to Christian doctrine, is achieved solely through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as one's personal saviour. This article explores this assertion, providing clarity on the role of religion and the centrality of Jesus in the Christian faith.

The Limitation of Religion

Religion, in its myriad forms, provides a framework for worship, moral guidance, and community. However, adhering to religious practices alone does not guarantee salvation. The Bible warns against placing undue emphasis on religious customs without genuine faith (Matthew 23:23). Merely following rituals or belonging to a religious group does not guarantee salvation if one lacks a personal relationship with Jesus.

The Essence of Salvation

Salvation, in Christian belief, hinges on faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the saviour of humanity. Acts of religious devotion are secondary to this fundamental truth. Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores this principle, stating that salvation is a gift from God, not earned through religious deeds. It is through belief in Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection that one finds redemption and eternal life (John 3:16).

Examples from Scripture

Throughout the Bible, numerous examples highlight the inadequacy of religious observance without genuine faith. The Pharisees, devout practitioners of Jewish law, faced condemnation from Jesus for their hypocrisy and legalism (Matthew 23:25-26). Conversely, individuals like the repentant thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43) and the tax collector in Jesus’ parable (Luke 18:9-14) found salvation through humble faith in Jesus, transcending their religious backgrounds.

The Distinction Between Relationship and Ritual

While religion may offer a framework for spiritual expression, it is ultimately a relationship with Jesus that brings salvation. This relationship entails repentance, faith, and obedience to Jesus’ teachings. Acts 4:12 reinforces this, proclaiming that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus. It is through acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Saviour that individuals experience forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

The Danger of Legalism

Legalism, the rigid adherence to religious laws and traditions, poses a threat to genuine faith. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for prioritising outward piety over inner transformation (Matthew 23:27-28). Similarly, modern-day Christians must guard against reducing salvation to a checklist of religious duties. True salvation transcends outward appearances, requiring a heart surrendered to Jesus.

In conclusion, the assertion that “religion doesn’t save anybody, only Jesus does” encapsulates a core tenet of the Christian faith. While religion provides structure and community, salvation is found solely in faith in Jesus Christ. Through examples from scripture and an examination of the distinction between relationship and ritual, it becomes evident that salvation is not earned through religious deeds but through a personal relationship with Jesus. As such, Christians are called to embrace genuine faith over empty religious observance, recognising Jesus as the trustworthy source of salvation.

(Haunu, resides in Dorcas Veng, New Lamka. Alongside her role as a financial steward in the Baptist Youth Fellowship, she is an avid writer, finding joy in crafting narratives in my spare time.)