2:211 – Don’t Let Religion Get In The Way Of Jesus

#faithbites #faithjourney religion #disneydreaming

Today we are back from vacation and it feels nice to be home. On the way to Florida and on the way back, we shared a flight with my freshman year roommate and his family. We got to talking today and I found out she’s a Methodist Pastor. I asked about what she thought the future of her church was and she had some ideas. But what struck me was how local her ministry is. People are what matters, not denomination politics or differences.

We get hung up on what denomination or sect or whatever we are and lose sight that it’s about sharing God’s word to all people, ministering in all seasons, and helping lost sheep find their Shepard.

It’s not about bylaws and policies, but Jesus. Sure we need some structure to operate but that shouldn’t get in the way of Christ.

Scripture

• “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day” – John 6:44
• Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truthand the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” – John 14:6-7
• The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together – Colossians 1:15-17

Reflection

Jesus is God personified. No one comes to the father except through the son. He is all powerful and connect to God as he is God. He is the bridge.

The Bible doesn’t say we have to be a certain sect or denomination to go to heaven. If we believe in Christ as our savior we are saved. No words needed. Works help show our belief but aren’t needed.

I’ve seen so many battles about how to run a church and that lose focus of Jesus. We are here to serve him, believe in Him, and love people. When we are all sinners, no one person is worse as we all fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

Charge

Thing about how you worship and serve God. Is it all about Jesus? If it isn’t maybe you should look elsewhere or help change where you worship. If it is, are you keeping him center in your life? Find ways to keep him center by reading his word.

Prayer

Lord, as humans we like to divide instead of multiply. We find reasons to wall off your church from one another. Please help us keep you centered in all we do. Let our artificial barriers fall away and become one church. In your name, Amen.