The chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Jesus by trickery and put Him to death. Mark 14:1-2
All four gospels tell stories of the religious leaders, set in their religious traditions, trying to kill Jesus.
Loyalty to their religion caused major problems. Religion can drive us into pious actions that only gas ourselves with the helium of self-promotion.
Instead of dying in the arena of religious works, I propose doing a couple of helpful activities. First, pursue a sincere, personal relationship with God. All who call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. Jesus said come follow me. Romans 10:13 & Mark 1:17
Next, embrace the forgiveness of Jesus for the wrongs you have done and forgive others as well. If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9
I believe if we practice those actions, we will come to know God in ways we never thought possible.
Will you do it? Pause for three minutes right now and consider the actions above. Help defeat death by religion and reinstitute the simplicity of a healthy relationship with God as He intended.
God, I confess my relationship with You is more shallow than it should be. Lord, help me to be real in my relationship with You. I ask that You forgive me and give me a pure heart today. Help me not suffer death by religion.
Blessings,
