For me this catchphrase has meant something a little different- not to contradict your insight here but to come at it from another perspective. It is, for me at least, a matter of why one does what one does. The negative aspect of what is called religion is the things we do to get God’s attention or to earn His mercy and grace. Born of relationship, knowing Him, comes the desire and commitment to do those things - pray, tithe, honor, obey.
History is filled with examples of those who have sought to follow Him by evincing that desire by what they believe to be good and pleasing - that’s the religion this saying dismisses. Compare that to the souls who come to God on His terms and seek to follow His ways - that is true religion which can aptly be called relationship. It is, I believe, what He longs for in us and with us. It’s why David, though often a wretched sinner, was referred to as a man after God’s heart. On the other hand it is why Jesus mentions those who have done great works in His Name yet “I never knew you”.
For me this catchphrase has meant something a little different- not to contradict your insight here but to come at it from another perspective. It is, for me at least, a matter of why one does what one does. The negative aspect of what is called religion is the things we do to get God’s attention or to earn His mercy and grace. Born of relationship, knowing Him, comes the desire and commitment to do those things - pray, tithe, honor, obey.
History is filled with examples of those who have sought to follow Him by evincing that desire by what they believe to be good and pleasing - that’s the religion this saying dismisses. Compare that to the souls who come to God on His terms and seek to follow His ways - that is true religion which can aptly be called relationship. It is, I believe, what He longs for in us and with us. It’s why David, though often a wretched sinner, was referred to as a man after God’s heart. On the other hand it is why Jesus mentions those who have done great works in His Name yet “I never knew you”.
Thanks for sharing this perspective!
Bravo! Religion defines the relationship, sets its boundaries, and shows how it must proceed. One without the other will end up in a ditch somewhere.