Thoughts on Freedom in Christ vs. Religion

Welcome to today's episode of Christian Turkey. My name is Steve, and we have Patrick in the audience, already laughing, which means it's a good day. We have a huge crowd in front of us that you can't see on camera, but if they get rowdy, I'll be sure to quiet them down. Just kidding. I'm filling in for Shawn tonight and will share my thoughts. This may be the shortest show ever videotaped, so enjoy it.

Understanding Freedom in Christ

The focus of tonight's discussion is the difference between freedom in Christ and religion. Now, you might be thinking, "Aren't they the same thing? Isn't being a Christian about religion?" Typically, when someone says they're a Christian, images of a church, religious buildings, or perhaps even protests might come to mind. However, Christ is not synonymous with religion.

Religion is often a human endeavor meant to control the minds and hearts of believers. Conversely, Christ is whom we look to in our faith, not a pastor or any other figure in a religious hierarchy. Religions, as institutions, often discuss Christ and may say good, bad, or neutral things. However, I invite every person to look past religion and focus solely on Christ.

The Power and Influence of Religion

We're in Salt Lake City, where religion has a significant influence, more so than I realized before moving here. Religion has the power to instill pride, puffing individuals up with the belief that they are superior to those not in their religious group or circle of friends. This is prevalent in many cities and states. My point is not to confuse religion with Christ's teachings.

The Simplicity of Christ's Commandments

So, how many laws and rules did Christ give believers today? Fifty? Twenty? A hundred thousand? No, just two: to love and believe. When Christ was on this earth, the Ten Commandments of the Old Testament were well-known. Christ made adhering to these laws more challenging by emphasizing internal attitudes over external acts.

For example, the commandment "Thou shalt not murder" seems straightforward. I can easily refrain from murdering Patrick over there, as I'm doing now. However, Christ taught that harboring hatred in one's heart was akin to murder, making it far more difficult to adhere to these rules.

Everything boils down to two things: love and belief. Murder is obviously a failure to love others. Similarly, adultery is a failure to love one's spouse. Yet, religion often complicates this by imposing additional requirements, such as tithing a portion of one's income, presenting it as God's money, and urging trust in religious institutions to use it wisely.

In contrast, we should strive to be cheerful givers and give as our hearts lead, free from the constraints of religion.

Understanding Faith Beyond Religion

The Burden of Religious Obligations

Consider this: if you're struggling financially, should you risk going into debt to fulfill religious obligations, like the expectation to give 10% of your income to a church? The notion that you must do this to be right with God or to avoid damnation is misleading. Such requirements can lead to feelings of bondage and shame, making you feel inadequate if you're unable to give. Conversely, those who can give might develop a sense of pride, believing they are better than those who cannot.

The impact of religious institutions often includes providing some spiritual insight and positive influence. However, it can also result in pride for some and guilt for others, as people strive to please an institution or attempt to connect with God through it.

Christianity: A Relationship, Not a Religion

Christianity should not be reduced to the church you attend. If someone asks whether you're a Christian, affirm your belief in Christ Jesus. The specifics of your church affiliation are secondary. If you love Christ and your neighbor, what more is needed?

Certain church cultures might pressure you to justify your faith through participation in church activities or group memberships. But these activities are not necessary to prove your faith. Being part of a social club that cleans parks or builds houses is equally valid in a spiritual sense because what truly matters is your faith and love.

The Misconception of Religious Identity

Religion often obstructs true faith. The misconception that Christianity equates to Catholicism, for instance, lingers because of institutional associations. It's vital to understand that your church or religious institution doesn't define you. Instead, let others identify you by your love—Christ’s selfless, agape loveSelfless love marked by patience, mercy, and humility—central to living in spiritual liberty..

The Meaning of Agape Love

Agape love is about choosing love over retaliation. It's about loving others when your initial reaction is to hate. This form of love embodies dying to one's fleshly desires. It's radically different because it persists in the face of adversity. If someone wrongs you, agape love means responding with love rather than hate, which is what true Christianity embodies.

Encouragement to Seek the Spiritual

Avoid placing your faith in religion, institutions, or earthly kingdoms. Christ’s Kingdom is not constrained by physical boundaries; it is a spiritual realm. Reflecting on the interaction between Pontius Pilate and Jesus, when asked if He was a king, it's clear that Jesus's kingdom transcended the physical realm. This emphasizes the spiritual nature of true faith.

Embrace faith through love, letting your actions reflect the teachings of Christ rather than the dictates of religious institutions.

Understanding the Nature of Christ's Kingdom

A Spiritual Kingdom

Jesus once said, "My Kingdom is not of this world; if my kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight so that I would not be delivered unto the Jews. But my kingdom is not from here." This statement highlights the spiritual nature of Christ's Kingdom. Many people thought Jesus would be an earthly king, but His kingdom is not about power or control in the worldly sense. It is a spiritual domain.

The Futility of Earthly Kingdoms

As humans, we have a tendency to focus on building material kingdoms. We find satisfaction in creating, acquiring wealth, seeking respect, and having our voices heard. However, all these are merely aspects of earthly kingdom building, which are insignificant in comparison to the spiritual Kingdom of Christ. Our faith should not be based on the material achievements or the church we attend. These are secondary concerns and distractions from our spiritual journey.

The Importance of Faith in Christ

Rather than placing our trust in earthly kingdoms, our faith should be rooted in Christ Jesus. He came not just for one individual but for each of us. This includes everyone, even the people we encounter in our everyday lives, such as Patrick. Ultimately, it is about placing your faith in Him, which is an essential aspect of our spiritual path.

Personal Note

My name is Steve, and I have a quick personal note to share. I am a guitar instructor in Salt Lake City, and if you or anyone you know is interested in learning guitar, consider reaching out to me at Dynamics Guitar Academy. I teach a variety of music styles, not just heavy music, despite my personal preference for it during shows. Feel free to join us and explore the world of music. Thank you all very much!