I’ve always been fascinated by how the smallest things can spark the biggest conversations.
Not long ago, I was using a pen with the words “Remember Jesus” inscribed on it. A simple object, yet it led to a discussion that got me thinking. The person I was talking to glanced at it and said, “Religion is the problem in this world.”
That statement made me pause. It’s a common belief, but it’s also a misunderstanding. Yeshua—more commonly known as Jesus—did not create religion.
In fact, He had more conflict with religious authorities than with anyone else. His message was never about rules and rituals but about restoring our relationship with the one true God.
Bible Verse: John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me.”
But what does this really mean? This explanation dives deeper into why Yeshua alone can restore our relationship with God.
Religion vs. Relationship
The truth is, that every man-made religion is built on works—on trying to reach God through effort, rituals, and rules. But that’s not how salvation works. Yeshua came to change everything.
John 1:14 declares, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” This means God Himself took on flesh and lived among us—not to establish another religion, but to rescue us.
Many believe that if they do enough good deeds, they can earn their way into heaven. But Scripture teaches otherwise. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
We can’t change our sinful nature by following rules. The Law, given to Moses, was never meant to save us—it was meant to show us our need for a Savior (Galatians 3:11).
The Good News: A New Nature in Christ
For those who already follow Yeshua, why would we return to a list of rules for sanctification when those rules couldn’t save us in the first place? And for those who have never accepted Him, did you know that salvation is as simple as believing?
1️⃣ 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
This verse lays out the foundation of the Gospel message:
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.”
Salvation isn’t about rituals or religion—it’s about believing in the finished work of Yeshua.
2️⃣ John 3:16
The ultimate declaration of God’s love and His plan for redemption:
“For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This verse reminds us that salvation is a gift, freely given to anyone who believes.
3️⃣ Matthew 6:33
A call to prioritize God above all else:
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and (then) all these things shall be added unto you.”
When we put our faith and trust in Yeshua, He transforms our lives, providing for us and drawing us closer to Him.
Yeshua didn’t come to create religion—He came to give us a new nature, one that allows us direct access to God.
Imagine having the assurance that your prayers are always heard. Imagine living with peace, knowing that your relationship with God isn’t based on performance but on His grace.
The Ultimate Decision
The world is full of distractions and voices telling us that we must earn our way to God through effort, rituals, or tradition.
But Yeshua’s message is clear—He alone is the way. There is no other path, no religious system, and no amount of good works that can bridge the gap between us and God. Only through Him can we find true freedom, purpose, and eternal life. This is not about following a religion; it’s about embracing a real, life-changing relationship with the Creator who loves you beyond measure.
A Question for Reflection
Do you have that new nature? If you do, how well are you listening to it?
If you haven’t yet embraced Yeshua as your Savior, know that He isn’t calling you to religion—He’s calling you to life. A life filled with grace, truth, and the unshakable assurance that you are loved and saved.
Wouldn’t you like that?