What is true religion? From a Biblical perspective it is not one of mere formalism or ritual of outward piety. James cautions that if our words (which spring from the abundance of the heart) are not sync with godly affections then our faith is like a cloud without rain in midst of drought conditions, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless” (v26). Further, to believe we can live apathetically to this truth is to deceive oneself.
Yes, we all fall short and no Christian lives this life in perfect obedience. Even Paul, who was an Apostle of the Gospel described his present struggle with our inner sinful condition (Rom 7:14-25, cf., Phi 3:12-16). The goal is not perfection, but to strive towards it in God. We pursuit it by the leading and strength the Spirit supplies. We are exhorted by scripture to “practice” daily a lifestyle of righteousness. Such “exercising” of our faith identifies us as children of God. With that being said, there is a way we live out our religion that is pleasing to God. James offers the following, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep one unstained from the world” (v27). In other words, what James is not necessarily offering is a specific prescription for true religion, but rather a principle. It is simply this: Love God by obeying his commands which sanctifies us in the world (distinguishes us) and love our neighbor. Why? Because this way of living imitates our Good Father in these ways:
- He is Love. God loves his creation, especially the helpless and marginalized, “The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin” (Ps 146:9).
- He is Holy. We are commanded in scripture to be as God is (1 Pt 1:14-16). We are to resist conformance to the world. Instead, we model our lifestyle (heart, mind, and actions) to the character of God. We practice godliness which aids us in obeying James’ exhortation, “…to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
We are in the world, but not of the world. We belong to an eternal King. We are citizens of an eternal kingdom. Remember we are new creation. Because of Christ, we have a new identity that is rejoiced over in heaven that we live by on earth. It is only by the practice of this true religion that people will know we belong to Christ. Love God, love people. This is the whole duty of man. Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com
Amen and thank you for this article.