Hey Steve: while I was on a business trip I had a good conversation with my friends, one who is agnostic and the other an Evangelical. Both of them agreed they didn’t believe in “organized religion”. From your Protestant background is there a specific meaning to that term or is it just another way to describe the Catholic Church. I thought Jesus was very organized having 12 apostles and when they replaced Judas and the first council etc…. Those are things in my mind that describe an organized way of a belief system. Or am I off on this. Reply when it’s convenient.
“Organized religion” is something (an institution or government) that steps in, takes authority and expects something of the person — something that interrupts or circumvents the simple, personal relationship they supposedly have with Jesus. The Evangelical often thinks of Christianity as a purely vertical relationship — me and Jesus. They forget that Jesus said, “I will build my Church!”
Because the evangelical often rejects an institutional, hierarchical “Church” or any “man-made” authority over them — outside the Bible Alone — “organized religion” is seen as a man-made institution that arrogates authority for itself — trying to take the place of Jesus. The gospel was once “pure, simple, Bible-only, and non-institutional. “Organized religion” is seen as the opposite of, or even opposed to, an “authentic, personal relationship with Jesus.
Unhappily, this cliché about organized religion is unbiblical and unworkable. Jesus said he would build his Church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it (Matt 16:18). He also said if there are problems between Christians they should “take it to the Church” as the final step, as in taking it to the Supreme Court. In order to have this kind of authority a church would have to be “organized,” be all over the whole earth and have authority over all Christians. If not, it makes a farse of Jesus’ words.
St. Paul also set up “organized religion” when he established churches across the Roman Empire with bishops, priests and deacons. This can clearly be seen in the writings of the very first Christians — one Church, organized from Rome and unified throughout the world. Sounds like the organized religion known as the Catholic Church to me.
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Quote: “Used in a negative manner, it refers to a government, denomination, or authority that has become institutionalized and that subsequently attempts to intrude into your life — ruling over you.
In other words, it goes to the heart of the sinful desire of mankind that NO ONE TELLS ME WHAT TO DO!!! This attitude originated in the heart of their father, the Devil, and is RAMPANT in this world today. So rampant is it that I have spoken to more than one employer in a company who has trouble with issuing orders for work and getting his desires obeyed.
This is the excuse of a man or woman who wants to be THEIR OWN POPE!
I agree with you bro ed. a good example of the guy named Koher in the OT, where he challenged Moses about his authority and questioned its origin.
By doing so, koher was challenging God Himself who had established that authority to Moses.
Even in Heaven it is very hierachical, e.g. different position and dominions of angels and archangels also in the visible Church where St. Paul described her as with Bishops, priests and deacons….the One , Holy, Apostolic, Catholic Church!
I have non Catholic Friends that believe this. We have recently return to the Catholic church from and we are fire up about our faith. How do we talk to our non catholic friends about this subject?
Thanks.
Anyone who thinks that the Catholic Church is organized religion has never looked behind the scenes. We are about as disorganized as anything can be, yet after 2,000 years, here we are.
Organized Religion=Legalism=Cult. Its an earthly institution that behaves like an extra-judicial heavenly authority and usually has sets of DO’s and DONT’s, binding its members in bondage thru’ its non-reformable system. Its composed of a thick-layered theological jungle mess that is accessible only to the core group while the common men, has to sheepishly obey everything without any form of protest.
STEVE RAY HERE: Albert, that is quite a stretch! You have a wild imagination and your = = is quite amusing. It could be of course, but to be to conclusive proves you’ve not thought thru this very carefully. Organization does not = cult. Sorry.
The negative use of “organized” religion is secret code for one who will only meet God on their terms. They oppose the rules and disciplines that actually “reduces” the clutter between our relationship to Jesus. I always wanted to play Carnegie Hall but those darn rules of being able to read and play musical notes or in other words “organized” music is such a downer.
“…a thick-layered theological jungle mess that is accessible only to the core group…”
The Catholic Church’s “core group” sure made a stupid mistake in publishing the Catechism, didn’t they?
STEVE RAY HERE: We’ll said!
I believe that the Catholic Church will be doing great service to the One Infinite God and to the Catholic faithful if they have leaders, priests and lay, who are well versed in the Bible to teach young people of its teachings and meanings rather than the Cathechism.
I hope your Stephen Ray…there is a 93 yrs old grandmother looking for her adopted grandson named Stephen Ray born on FEB 3rd, 1968….any chance its you?
STEVE RAY HERE. Sorry, I am not him. There are many with that name.
Sharon F. April 4, 2009 at 12:50 PM
I have non Catholic Friends that believe this. We have recently return to the Catholic church from and we are fire up about our faith. How do we talk to our non catholic friends about this subject?
Thanks.
I think Jae’s answer is very good. He said:
Jae March 25, 2009 at 1:29 AM
I agree with you bro ed. a good example of the guy named Koher in the OT, where he challenged Moses about his authority and questioned its origin.
By doing so, koher was challenging God Himself who had established that authority to Moses.
Even in Heaven it is very hierachical, e.g. different position and dominions of angels and archangels also in the visible Church where St. Paul described her as with Bishops, priests and deacons….the One , Holy, Apostolic, Catholic Church!
It is evident, from Scripture, that Jesus Christ organized a Church. He established an organized religion to succeed the organized religion His Heavenly Father had established by Moses. I would simply repeat something along the lines of what Jae said. Rebellion against the organized religion that Christ established, is rebellion against Christ.
Malbert De Souza March 22, 2013 at 11:33 AM
Organized Religion=Legalism=Cult.
Jesus Christ established an organized religion. He established a Church (Matt 16:18).
Appointed a Leader (John 21:17).
Appointed a Board of Directors (Luke 6:13).
Appointed officials throughout His Church (1 Corinthians 12:28-29).
Jesus Christ established the first CORPORATION. The Church is the Body of Christ. Corporation comes from the word, “body”. And a body is nothing if not organized. That is why, human beings are “organisms.” Because God has organized our bodies (Rom 12:5-7).
Its an earthly institution that behaves like an extra-judicial heavenly authority
1 Corinthians 6:3
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?
and usually has sets of DO’s and DONT’s, binding its members in bondage thru’ its non-reformable system.
Matthew 18:17
King James Version (KJV)
17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
Galatians 1:8
King James Version (KJV)
8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Its composed of a thick-layered theological jungle mess that is accessible only to the core group
On the contrary, the Catholic Church is accessible to all men. There is no Church more open than the Catholic Church.
while the common men, has to sheepishly obey everything without any form of protest.
Hebrews 13:17
King James Version (KJV)
17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
The problem is, that you have never read Scripture. Or if you did, you didn’t understand what you read. You are living according to your traditions of men. And in so doing, have placed yourself directly against God. The Catholic Church is the voice of Christ on this earth:
2 Corinthians 5:20
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.
Sincerely,
De Maria
Isabel E. March 24, 2013 at 12:56 PM
I believe that the Catholic Church will be doing great service to the One Infinite God and to the Catholic faithful if they have leaders, priests and lay, who are well versed in the Bible to teach young people of its teachings and meanings rather than the Cathechism.
There are many such leaders in the Catholic Church. Most Catholic Diocesan offices offer all types of Biblical, doctrinal and theological studies in addition to the Catechism.
There are many such leaders in the Catholic Church. Most Catholic Diocesan offices offer all types of Biblical, doctrinal and theological studies in addition to the Catechism.
This surely is true in the US. Its not applicable in many or majority countries Catholicism is present. I see that catechism is only taught to the young people when they are ready to receive communion. Only catechism mini-booklets are handed out. They avoid teaching the scriptures like the plague. I have personally seen this my self.
A dictionary definition of “religion” would be something similar to “belief in God or gods to be worshipped, usually expressed in conduct and ritual; any specific system of belief, worship, etc., often involving a code of ethics.” In light of this definition, the Bible does speak of organized religion, but in many cases the purpose and impact of “organized religion” are not something that God is pleased with.
In Genesis chapter 11, perhaps the first instance of organized religion, the descendants of Noah organized themselves to build the tower of Babel instead of obeying God’s command to fill the entire earth. They believed that their unity was more important than their relationship with God. God stepped in and confused their languages, thus breaking up this organized religion.
In Exodus chapter 6 and following, God “organized” a religion for the nation of Israel. The Ten Commandments, the laws regarding the tabernacle, and the sacrificial system were all instituted by God and were to be followed by the Israelites. Further study of the New Testament clarifies that the intent of this religion was to point to the need for a Savior-Messiah (Galatians 3; Romans 7). However, many have misunderstood this and have worshipped the rules and rituals rather than God.
Throughout Israel’s history, many of the conflicts experienced by the Israelites involved conflict with organized religions. Examples include the worship of Baal (Judges 6; 1 Kings 18), Dagon (1 Samuel 5), and Molech (2 Kings 23:10). God defeated the followers of these religions, displaying His sovereignty and omnipotence.
In the Gospels, the Pharisees and Sadducees are depicted as the representatives of organized religion at the time of Christ. Jesus constantly confronted them about their false teachings and hypocritical lifestyles. In the Epistles, there were organized groups that mixed the gospel with certain lists of required works and rituals. They also sought to put pressure on believers to change and accept these “Christianity plus” religions. Galatians and Colossians give warnings about such religions. In the book of Revelation, organized religion will have an impact on the world as the Antichrist sets up a one-world religion.
In many cases, the end result of organized religion is a distraction from the intent of God. However, the Bible does speak of organized believers who are part of His plan. God calls these groups of organized believers “churches.” The descriptions from the book of Acts and the Epistles indicate that the church is to be organized and interdependent. The organization leads to protection, productivity, and outreach (Acts 2:41-47). In the case of the church, it could better be called an “organized relationship.”
Religion is man’s attempt to have communion with God. The Christian faith is a relationship with God because of what He has done for us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. There is no plan to reach God (He has reached out to us—Romans 5:8). There is no pride (all is received by grace—Ephesians 2:8-9). There should be no conflict over leadership (Christ is the head—Colossians 1:18). There should be no prejudice (we are all one in Christ—Galatians 3:28). Being organized is not the problem. Focusing on the rules and rituals of a religion is the problem.
So why did Jesus tell His disciples that the Scribes and Pharisees “sit in the Chair of Moses”, and that, because of this authority they had, His disciples should do what the Scribes and Pharisees said, just not follow their example?
“However, many have misunderstood this and have worshipped the rules and rituals rather than God.”
Perhaps you could name a few specific examples of people who “worshipped” these “rules and rituals”?
Peter Pereira March 25, 2013 at 1:03 PM
A dictionary definition of “religion” would be something similar to “belief in God or gods to be worshipped, usually expressed in conduct and ritual; any specific system of belief, worship, etc., often involving a code of ethics.” In light of this definition, the Bible does speak of organized religion,
Agreed.
but in many cases the purpose and impact of “organized religion” are not something that God is pleased with.
The only organized religions to which God is opposed in Scripture, are those which worship other gods. Do you have any evidence that God opposes organized efforts to worship Him?
In Genesis chapter 11, perhaps the first instance of organized religion, the descendants of Noah organized themselves to build the tower of Babel instead of obeying God’s command to fill the entire earth. They believed that their unity was more important than their relationship with God. God stepped in and confused their languages, thus breaking up this organized religion.
Good example of what I’m talking about. You have also admitted that they “disobeyed” God. Therefore, God was opposed to this organization.
In Exodus chapter 6 and following, God “organized” a religion for the nation of Israel. The Ten Commandments, the laws regarding the tabernacle, and the sacrificial system were all instituted by God and were to be followed by the Israelites. Further study of the New Testament clarifies that the intent of this religion was to point to the need for a Savior-Messiah (Galatians 3; Romans 7). However, many have misunderstood this and have worshipped the rules and rituals rather than God.
I don’t know of any who worship the rules and rituals. The rules in the Catholic Church are to ensure obedience to God. And the rituals are to ensure proper worship of God.
Throughout Israel’s history, many of the conflicts experienced by the Israelites involved conflict with organized religions. Examples include the worship of Baal (Judges 6; 1 Kings 18), Dagon (1 Samuel 5), and Molech (2 Kings 23:10). God defeated the followers of these religions, displaying His sovereignty and omnipotence.
Exactly. God organized a true religion to oppose the world’s false religions.
In the Gospels, the Pharisees and Sadducees are depicted as the representatives of organized religion at the time of Christ. Jesus constantly confronted them about their false teachings and hypocritical lifestyles. In the Epistles, there were organized groups that mixed the gospel with certain lists of required works and rituals. They also sought to put pressure on believers to change and accept these “Christianity plus” religions.
Christianity plus? You mean like this one?
James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Galatians and Colossians give warnings about such religions. In the book of Revelation, organized religion will have an impact on the world as the Antichrist sets up a one-world religion.
All the while, the Catholic Church which Jesus organized will oppose all those who worship the anti-Christ and all those who bring about heresies and errors. Scripture says:
Ephesians 3:10
King James Version (KJV)
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
In many cases, the end result of organized religion is a distraction from the intent of God.
On the contrary, the religion which God organized do not distract from but focus upon, God.
However, the Bible does speak of organized believers who are part of His plan. God calls these groups of organized believers “churches.” The descriptions from the book of Acts and the Epistles indicate that the church is to be organized and interdependent. The organization leads to protection, productivity, and outreach (Acts 2:41-47). In the case of the church, it could better be called an “organized relationship.”
Religion is a relationship with God.
Religion is man’s attempt to have communion with God.
True Religion is God’s revelation instructing man how to have communion with Him:
1 Corinthians 11:24
And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
The Christian faith is a relationship with God because of what He has done for us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. There is no plan to reach God (He has reached out to us—Romans 5:8). There is no pride (all is received by grace—Ephesians 2:8-9). There should be no conflict over leadership (Christ is the head—Colossians 1:18). There should be no prejudice (we are all one in Christ—Galatians 3:28). Being organized is not the problem. Focusing on the rules and rituals of a religion is the problem.
Disobedience is the problem. God made rules and established rituals. Obey Him:
Hebrews 5:9
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
Sincerely,
De Maria
STEVE RAY HERE. I HAVE ONLY APPROVED PETER’S COMMENT BELOW FOR COMEDIC AND EDUCATIONAL VALUE. HE COULD NOT BE MORE WRONG OR SILLY. READ IT AND BE GLAD YOU ARE A CATHOLIC!!!
My Post appears to have stirred-up a hornet’s nest :-)>
The only organized religions to which God is opposed in Scripture, are those which worship other gods. Do you have any evidence that God opposes organized efforts to worship Him?
God demands exclusivity as far as worship is concerned being the creator of the universe, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and End, the sustainer of Life and the object of faith, His Holy infallible Word that has been preserved for generations all together, and will continue to do so till all be fullfilled.
Religion is a relationship with God.
It also can mean that relationship is established on the grounds according to what man “decides” to by his own deeds – self righteouness. Religion tries to make a person obedient by trying the tame the external personality, but is not aware it is a heart-issue. Religion makes one obey from the outside without any real change of our nature from the inside.
I wouldn’t walk across the street for religion, but I am willing to go around the world for the sake of the Gospel. There is a great difference between the two.
Religion is man-made; the Gospel is God-given.
Religion is what man does for God; the Gospel is what God did for man.
Religion is man’s search for God; the Gospel is Gods search for man.
Religion is man trying to climb up the ladder of his own self-righteousness, with the hope of meeting God on the topmost rung; the gospel is God coming down the ladder in the incarnation of Jesus Christ and meeting us sinners at the lowest rung.
People claim to live by the golden rule not knowing what it requires. They claim to keep the law. But sincerity to do right doesn’t make someone accepted before God. No one will make heaven by there own obedience to Gods laws. Cults always confuse obedience to laws and church with keeping gaining or keeping ones salvation.
The law is bad news! Long before Satan paganized the Church he tried to Judaize it, this was done by having them be confused which covenant to live under. Law and grace are mutually exclusive they cannot be combined. When we come to the New Testament Jesus defines what true law keeping is in his sermon on the mount. The sermon on the mount in Matthew chapter 5 was not meant to be the “golden rule” for Christian ethics or for the people of the world. The Pharisees kept the letter of the law. They thought if they did not steal or kill they were not guilty. Jesus went further showing them that the true righteousness of the law is how one acts on the inside. What it really demanded was not an outward obedience but it had an inward intent of obedience. Someone would violate the righteousness of the law long before they commit the physical act. If one hated his brother they would be guilty of murder in the heart long before they committed the act. However, the Pharisees considered themselves not guilty because they never did the physical act of murder They made the law of no effect because it did not affect the inner man. The true conformity to the Law of Moses was internal not external. The law did not make one righteous but showed how unrighteous they really were. God requires truth on the inward parts. The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul.”
Religion is operated by the fallen nature, only those who believe the Gospel receive the Spirit and operate in God. Religion puts people in spiritual and psychological bondage, the Gospel frees someone into the ultimate liberation of their soul.
Religion is good views on life; the gospel is good news about eternal life.
Religion is good advice to man; the gospel is a glorious announcement to mankind.
Religion takes a man and leaves him as he is; the gospel takes a man as he is and makes him what he ought to be
Religion leads to an outer reformation; the gospel leads to an inner transformation. Once the inside is transformed the outward will certainly follow.
Religion whitewashes the truth; the Gospel washes white with the truth.
Religion often becomes a farce; the Gospel is always a force, it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.
There are many religions for many cultures, but there is only one Gospel for all cultures for all time.
“My Post seems to have stirred up a hornet’s nest.”
No, only corrections of your man-made errors.
I don’t know of any who worship the rules and rituals. The rules in the Catholic Church are to ensure obedience to God. And the rituals are to ensure proper worship of God
In his inaugural speech, pope Francis mentioned of his intentions to take the Catholic Church back to “its Roots”. What does this mean?
And the above comment relates how, exactly, to the quote above it?
“Cults always confuse obedience to laws and church with keeping gaining (?) or keeping ones (sic) salvation.”
“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”–John 14:15.
Maybe he thinks Jesus is a cult leader.
Peter still has not responded to The Sarge’s comment of 3/25, 5:53PM.
More about religion and religiosity ..
As a society we are so afraid of diseases and plagues we do much to prevent their spread, but there is a more fatal disease, one that has affected everyone on this planet… that is sin, so we can add one more item to death and taxes that we all share. Although this particular one needs to be settled now not later.
Sin is something society does not want to hear about or believe in. Its become religiously incorrect to mention such a point . But all one has to do is look around us to see the activity and expression of what sin is. Murder, acts of inhumanity, even to those of their own flesh and blood. Society is filled with thieves, liars and selfish people coveting what others have. While these violate other peoples lives we still have to acknowledge that we keep company with it ourselves. Even if we don’t hurt another soul we still have sinful desires within us. What is called love today can be called sin when it practiced beyond the confines of marriage as God ordained. That’s right even when a man and woman say they love each other if they don’t enter into a lifelong commitment is it really love?
Religions can be summed up as the leaky bucket syndrome. You have one leaky bucket and look for another bucket you pour the water out into the new one only to find this too has a hole. You seek for another and pour the water out only to find it too has a hole. You continue to do this but none of them hold the water any better than the first. The modern world we live in today is filled with a multiplicity of faith’s. God comes in many shapes and sizes and choosing can be much like shopping for a popular item in a supermarket. How is one to know what is right or what is true. There is an agreement in most all religions that their is a God and one can be accepted by him by doing certain rituals and practices.
The fallen nature of man loves religion, it caters to his well being it bolsters the ego and develops mans self esteem. The gospel is the opposite of religion, it humbles the pride of man and changes his focus from self dependent to God dependent. All religions invented by man try to please their creator without ever knowing if they are sure but only hope it is true. New Signs Wonders, Miracles does a man seek which is a sign of weakness you get it from practicing religiosity.
No response to any comments or questions to him; he chooses to ignore what does not fit into his viewpoint.
Hi Peter,
You said,
Peter Pereira March 28, 2013 at 11:14 AM
My Post appears to have stirred-up a hornet’s nest :-)>
Mighty small nest, Peter. You should see some of the other articles which Steve has written. They’ve inspired hundreds of heated exchanges. This is a rather small one in comparison.
God demands exclusivity as far as worship
No doubt. And religion does that. But you didn’t answer my question. Here are my words which you are apparently responding to because YOU put them right above those words:
The only organized religions to which God is opposed in Scripture, are those which worship other gods. Do you have any evidence that God opposes organized efforts to worship Him?
I asked for evidence, you responded with your opinion.
God demands exclusivity as far as worshipis concerned being the creator of the universe, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and End, the sustainer of Life and the object of faith, His Holy infallible Word that has been preserved for generations all together, and will continue to do so till all be fulfilled.
That is true. That is why Jesus Christ established His Religion. In order to worship God exclusively the way God wants to be worshipped.
It also can mean that relationship is established on the grounds according to what man “decides” to by his own deeds – self righteouness.
That describes Protestantism and especially the doctrine of faith alone. This false doctrine teaches people to judge their own righteousness and claim for themselves salvation. That’s why Protestants go around saying, “I’m saved, you’re not saved, he’s saved or he’s not saved.” Thereby glorifying and exhaling themselves as though they had the mind of God. Whereas, Scripture tells us that God is the dispenser of mercy and salvation:
Exodus 20:6
King James Version (KJV)
6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
1 Corinthians 4:1-5
King James Version (KJV)
1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Religion tries to make a person obedient by trying the tame the external personality, but is not aware it is a heart-issue. Religion makes one obey from the outside without any real change of our nature from the inside.
Again, that describes Protestantism. It is Protestants who claim that we can’t keep the Ten Commandments and that we shouldn’t try to be holy. But Scripture says otherwise:
Revelation 22:12-15
King James Version (KJV)
12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. 15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
2 Peter 1:4-10
King James Version (KJV)
4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
I wouldn’t walk across the street for religion, but I am willing to go around the world for the sake of the Gospel. There is a great difference between the two.
On the contrary, the Gospel is the Religion of Jesus Christ explained. What you do is practice your own form of religion which contradicts, denies and discards the Teaching of Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 3:4-6
King James Version (KJV)
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Religion is man-made; the Gospel is God-given.
The Gospel is the Religion which God gave us.
Religion is what man does for God; the Gospel is what God did for man.
This is typical Protestant false dichotomy. The True Gospel includes both. The Gospel explains the Religious duties of man towards God in response to God’s mercy.
Religion is man’s search for God; the Gospel is Gods search for man.
That’s a strange thing to say. The Scripture says that we must seek after God:
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Therefore, the Gospel is the Religion which teaches us to seek after God in faith.
Religion is man trying to climb up the ladder of his own self-righteousness, with the hope of meeting God on the topmost rung; the gospel is God coming down the ladder in the incarnation of Jesus Christ and meeting us sinners at the lowest rung.
The Gospel is the Religion which tells us that Jesus Christ became man in order to give us an example to follow:
1 Peter 2:21
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Matthew 16:24
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
People claim to live by the golden rule not knowing what it requires. They claim to keep the law. But sincerity to do right doesn’t make someone accepted before God. No one will make heaven by there own obedience to Gods laws. Cults always confuse obedience to laws and church with keeping gaining or keeping ones salvation.
Your cult has confused you. It is not we, Catholics, who go around proclaiming ourselves righteous enough to be saved. It is Protestants who do that. The proof is simple to obtain. Ask a Catholic if he is saved. What will he respond, “I don’t know. God is my Judge.” And that is the Biblical answer:
1 Corinthians 4:3-4
King James Version (KJV)
3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.
But ask a Protestant if he is saved. What does he say, “Yes and Amen! I’m saved by my faith alone!” But that is adherence to false teaching. For the Scripture says:
ames 2:23-24
King James Version (KJV)
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. 24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
The law is bad news!
Romans 7:12
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Long before Satan paganized the Church
That is typical Protestant lack of faith. The Catholic Church has never been paganized. Christ guaranteed that His Church would never fall:
Matthew 16:18-19
King James Version (KJV)
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
We have faith in Jesus Christ and therefore, believe His promise.
he tried to Judaize it, this was done by having them be confused which covenant to live under. Law and grace are mutually exclusive they cannot be combined. When we come to the New Testament Jesus defines what true law keeping is in his sermon on the mount. The sermon on the mount in Matthew chapter 5 was not meant to be the “golden rule” for Christian ethics or for the people of the world. The Pharisees kept the letter of the law. They thought if they did not steal or kill they were not guilty. Jesus went further showing them that the true righteousness of the law is how one acts on the inside. What it really demanded was not an outward obedience but it had an inward intent of obedience.
That is more of that Protestant false dichotomy. Inward obedience results in outward obedience. As Jesus said:
Matthew 15:8
This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
And St. James says something very profound:
James 2:14
What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Inward faith which does not result in outward works, is false and dead:
James 2:26
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Someone would violate the righteousness of the law long before they commit the physical act. If one hated his brother they would be guilty of murder in the heart long before they committed the act. However, the Pharisees considered themselves not guilty because they never did the physical act of murder They made the law of no effect because it did not affect the inner man. The true conformity to the Law of Moses was internal not external. The law did not make one righteous but showed how unrighteous they really were. God requires truth on the inward parts. The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul.”
The Law leads us to Christ:
Galatians 3:24
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Religion is operated by the fallen nature, only those who believe the Gospel receive the Spirit and operate in God. Religion puts people in spiritual and psychological bondage, the Gospel frees someone into the ultimate liberation of their soul.
The Gospel is the Religion which teaches us that we are free to do what is right Romans 7:7
What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.:
Romans 2:13
(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.
Romans 7:7
What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
Religion is good views on life; the gospel is good news about eternal life.
The Gospel is the Religion which teaches you how to live in this life that you might gain eternal life.
Religion is good advice to man; the gospel is a glorious announcement to mankind.
The Gospel is the Religion which teaches man how to respond to the glorious announcement that Jesus died to save mankind.
Religion takes a man and leaves him as he is; the gospel takes a man as he is and makes him what he ought to be
The Gospel is the Religion which teaches a man to be perfect in all good works as God intended him to be.
Religion leads to an outer reformation; the gospel leads to an inner transformation. Once the inside is transformed the outward will certainly follow.
You just contradicted yourself. All I can add is that the Gospel is that Religion which teaches a man to be transformed inwardly in order that he might respond outwardly in accordance with the Will of God.
Philippians 2:11-13
King James Version (KJV)
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Religion whitewashes the truth; the Gospel washes white with the truth.
The Gospel is the Religion of Jesus Christ which proclaims the Wisdom of God to the whole world.
Religion often becomes a farce; the Gospel is always a force, it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.
Religion, such as Protestantism, has become a farce. The Gospel is the Religion which pours upon mankind the power of God which is the Holy Spirit in Baptism.
There are many religions for many cultures, but there is only one Gospel for all cultures for all time.
And that one Gospel is the Religion which is passed down through the Catholic Church which Jesus Christ established to Teach all which He commands.
Sincerely,
De Maria
Peter asks:
Peter Pereira March 28, 2013 at 11:45 PM
In his inaugural speech, pope Francis mentioned of his intentions to take the Catholic Church back to “its Roots”. What does this mean?
The Pope is urging Catholics to shun worldliness.
Hi Peter,
Peter Pereira March 30, 2013 at 1:25 PM
More about religion and religiosity ..
As a society we are so afraid of diseases and plagues we do much to prevent their spread, but there is a more fatal disease, one that has affected everyone on this planet… that is sin, so we can add one more item to death and taxes that we all share. Although this particular one needs to be settled now not later.
Sin is something society does not want to hear about or believe in. Its become religiously incorrect to mention such a point . But all one has to do is look around us to see the activity and expression of what sin is. Murder, acts of inhumanity, even to those of their own flesh and blood. Society is filled with thieves, liars and selfish people coveting what others have. While these violate other peoples lives we still have to acknowledge that we keep company with it ourselves. Even if we don’t hurt another soul we still have sinful desires within us. What is called love today can be called sin when it practiced beyond the confines of marriage as God ordained. That’s right even when a man and woman say they love each other if they don’t enter into a lifelong commitment is it really love?
That is Catholic Teaching.
Religions can be summed up as the leaky bucket syndrome. You have one leaky bucket and look for another bucket you pour the water out into the new one only to find this too has a hole. You seek for another and pour the water out only to find it too has a hole. You continue to do this but none of them hold the water any better than the first. The modern world we live in today is filled with a multiplicity of faith’s. God comes in many shapes and sizes and choosing can be much like shopping for a popular item in a supermarket.
This is true. Look at the Protestants and the fruits of Sola Scriptura. Protestants were no satisfied with the Religion which Jesus Christ established, the Catholic Church, therefore they made another. Then another and another until they are now the epitome of the many headed hydra. The faith of Jesus Christ is lost amongst the Protestant and Sola Scriptura religions.
How is one to know what is right or what is true.
Well, reviewing a true history of the Church would be a good start. What Protestants and Sola Scripturists don’t understand is that Sacred Tradition has been written down. It is called the New Testament.
Jesus Christ did not write anything down. He established a Church and commanded that Church to pass down His Teachings. Another word for Teachings is Traditions. That Church then wrote down the Traditions and called that the New Testament. This is why valid Doctrines are found in Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture. And invalid doctrines are found neither in Sacred Tradition nor in Sacred Scripture.
Take for instance, Sola Scriptura. You will find it neither in Sacred Tradition nor in Sacred Scripture.
Any Protestant doctrine which contradicts the Sacred Traditions taught by the Catholic Church also contradicts the Sacred Scriptures and will not be found therein.
There is an agreement in most all religions that their is a God and one can be accepted by him by doing certain rituals and practices.
It is God who prescribed the rituals of the Catholic Church:
Luke 22:19
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
The fallen nature of man loves religion, it caters to his well being it bolsters the ego and develops mans self esteem. The gospel is the opposite of religion, it humbles the pride of man and changes his focus from self dependent to God dependent. All religions invented by man try to please their creator without ever knowing if they are sure but only hope it is true. New Signs Wonders, Miracles does a man seek which is a sign of weakness you get it from practicing religiosity.
1. The Gospel is the Religion which Jesus Christ taught and which the Church, the Body of Christ continues to teach in obedience to His command (Matt 28:19-20).
2. It is Protestantism which builds up sinful pride and teaches men that they can save themselves by faith alone and need not await the Judgment of all mighty God:
Romans 14:10
But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
3. It is ironic that Protestants and Sola Scripturists, by abandoning the Church and Sacred Tradition have cut themselves off from the Grace of God which they can only receive in the Sacraments and put themselves squarely under the Law.
It is in the Sacraments that we are justified and sanctified by Holy Spirit in the Washing of Regeneration apart from any works but by faith alone in the power of God. It is those who receive the Sacraments who walk amongst the Saints in this life because only doers of the Law are just in the eyes of God. And seeking His favor with no deceit in our heart, we are filled with grace in accordance with the abundance of our faith.
But Protestants and Sola Scripturists have cast away the grace of God and put themselves under the Law and must now await the Last Day and stand before they are saved. If they are saved.
Sincerely,
De Maria
That is Catholic Teaching.
And not Christian Teaching?
This is true. Look at the Protestants and the fruits of Sola Scriptura. Protestants were no satisfied with the Religion which Jesus Christ established, the Catholic Church, therefore they made another.
No they were disgruntled by the sacedortal system which denies meriting of God’s grace directly but which must go through a human system – Ephesians 2:8-9
The Gospel is the Religion which Jesus Christ taught ..
No. The Gospel is the “good news” to be believed. The gospel is the singularly most important communication of God to man. In Jesus, who is God the Son, we have the revelation of God’s love and sacrifice that saves us from God’s righteous judgment upon sinners. It is not a religion.
Peter Pereira April 13, 2013 at 2:49 PM
And not Christian Teaching?
The Catholic Church is the first Christian Church. Jesus Christ established the Catholic Church. Who established yours?
No they were disgruntled by the sacedortal system which denies meriting of God’s grace directly but which must go through a human system – Ephesians 2:8-9
The human system is the Protestant system. The Catholic Church teaches the true faith of Jesus Christ.
No.
Yes.
The Gospel is the “good news” to be believed.
That is true. But it is most perfectly taught by the Catholic Church.
The gospel is the singularly most important communication of God to man. In Jesus, who is God the Son, we have the revelation of God’s love and sacrifice that saves us from God’s righteous judgment upon sinners.
True. If we cooperate with His grace and do the will of the Father:
Revelation 22:12-15
King James Version (KJV)
12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 14 Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. 15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
It is not a religion.
It is the true religion of Jesus Christ:
James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Sincerely,
De Maria
Thank you Mr. Steve Ray and De Maria for clearly pointing out and explaining the misconceptions our brothers hold against the Catholic faith and the Catholic Church as a whole. Their arguments clearly emanates on “sola scriptura and faith alone” concepts which brings forth out-of-context, personal interpretations of the Holy Scriptures. It is very clear that Jesus Christ established the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church organized to propagate the gospels in its fullness as the One body of Christ and not a continuously-dividing, numerous, non-denominational church established by men after the reformation. (https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth)
There is a place for organized religion in the world; as long as it doesn’t try to take the place of Jesus. If it points you to a personal relationship with Christ, it is doing what it is supposed to do. If it doesn’t, then it results in what we have in today’s Christianity.
“There is a place for organized religion in the world…” That is why Jesus established one Church and endowed it with His authority.
“…as long as it doesn’t try to take the place of Jesus.” The Church Jesus established is the Full Christ; He is the Head, we the Body of Christ.
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