Religion Won’t Save You—But Jesus Will

One of the greatest deceptions in our world today is the belief that being a "good person" or following religious traditions is enough to make us right with God. The Apostle Paul dismantles this notion in Romans 2 and 3, making it clear that righteousness doesn’t come from what we do—it comes from whom we trust.

The Jews in Paul’s day prided themselves on their heritage, their knowledge of the law, and their religious practices. They believed these external markers set them apart as God's people. But Paul exposes the flaw in this thinking: "You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it" (Romans 2:23, NLT). Their religious acts had become a source of pride rather than a response to God's grace.

This warning is just as relevant today. How often do we equate church attendance, Bible knowledge, or moral behavior with true righteousness? Paul reminds us that none of these things—by themselves—can save us. Salvation is only found in Jesus. "For you are not a true Jew just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the ceremony of circumcision. No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God" (Romans 2:28-29, NLT).

True faith is about heart transformation. It’s about moving beyond religious routine to a genuine relationship with Christ. The good news? Even when we fall short, God’s faithfulness never wavers. Paul declares, "If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is" (2 Timothy 2:13, NLT).

So, where does your confidence lie? In your good deeds? In religious rituals? Or in Christ alone? The challenge for all of us is to examine our hearts and ensure that we’re not just acting religious but are truly living in faith.

Let’s move beyond empty religion and embrace the transforming power of the gospel.