Pure Religion

The modern approach to religion is to argue that there is good and bad in every religion. As long as one is religious, it matters little what religion is chosen.

However, the New Testament clearly differentiates between religion which God accepts and that which He does not accept when it refers to pure and vain (worthless) religion (James 1:26, 27). From the Sermon on the Mount it is clear that Jesus was in full agreement with the concepts presented in the epistle of James (Matthew 7:13-23).

Further, the exchange between Jesus and certain scribes and Pharisees over His disciples failure to wash their hands before eating also confirms what James wrote (Matthew 15:1-14).

Practicing Pure New Testament Christianity Demands Four Specific Things

1. Pure religion demands a bridled tongue (James 1:19, 26). The tongue is important because our words are a reflection of our hearts (Matthew 12:34, 35). An unbridled tongue nullifies our religious profession. Christians are commanded: “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6).
2. Pure religion demands a compassionate heart (James 1:27). God has always demanded that His people be compassionate toward those in need (Deut. 24:19-22). This was at the heart of the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10). We cannot practice pure religion and turn our backs on those who are truly in need.
3. Pure religion demands a morally upright life (James 1:21, 27). This theme pervades the entire New Testament (2 Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:19). We must not allow ourselves to be contaminated by the sins of this world (immorality, materialism, unbelief, etc.).
4. Pure religion demands an obedient spirit (James 1:22-25). This is the message Jesus used to close the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:24-27).

The point is this: All the ritual in the world is no substitute for a heart of service and a life of purity and obedience. Are you practicing pure religion?

Salvation:  Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully