“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out onreligion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover yourlife.” Matthew 11:28 (MSG)
Organized legalistic religion believes that following a bunch of rules gains God’s approval. Not surprisingly, I run into people who tell me this kind of religion turns them off. And they’re always shocked when I agree with them as a pastor.
Now, having said that, let me clarify that organized legalistic religion is different from an organized church. It’s necessary to have organization when it comes to church services, finances and programs. But legalistic religion operates by trying to get closer to God through works like good behaviour and rule-following. Living that way is heavy, tiresome and futile.
That’s why the Gospel is such truly incredible news. Legalistic religion may be all about rules, but Jesus is all about relationships. Jesus entered into human history, died and rose again to open a way for us to be right with God. He fulfilled the law (Romans 8:3–4) so we could experience redemption and freedom through an intimate, wholly restored relationship with Him. You see, Jesus fully understood the unbearable weight religion places on people. In Jesus’ time, dedicated followers of Judaism tried to adhere to over six hundred rules!
No wonder Jesus said in Matthew 11:29–30 (MSG), “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 light.”
Jesus didn’t come to start a religion. He came to end it and start a beautiful, loving relationship with you instead.
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