Religion vs. Relationship: Thoughts from Sunday's Sermon

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.  Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh.  For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.
- (Philippians 3:1-3 ESV)


While there may be a noble reason behind our religious rules, following all those rules perfectly does not save us. Paul was clear that even following the law that was God given (NOT man made), doesn't save us. He wrote:

Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? (Galatians 3:3 ESV)

For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.”  (Galatians 3:10-14 ESV)

Legalism kills our joy in Christ. We serve out of love and of a changed heart because of our new birth - what we call being "born again".  If we are Christ's we have been born from above and given a new heart. (Ezekiel 36:26)

May we serve by the Spirit's power, avoid a performance mentality, and boast only in Jesus Christ!