How many times have I heard people talking about religion giving way to salvation? Ten times…or possibly 20 or more times…But is it really it? Can religion give salvation?
Salvation as defined in wikipedia is being saved from something, such as suffering or the punishment of sin - also called deliverance; Human beings are born sinners. Sinful nature is part of being a human being but “those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God (Romans 8:8)” Sin abides in our heart and we try to do righteous things to cover up that sinful nature. Unfortunately, good works can never save us. "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." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
How then can we be saved? "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”(John 3:16) It is a matter of accepting Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of our lives can we be saved. For Jesus said: "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me." (John 14:6)
Why then do some people depend on religion in order for them to be saved? Was it religion who sacrificed his life to save the sinful world from eternal damnation? Was it religion who carried the cross all the way to the mount of Calvary and be crucified for the redemption of our sins?
Religion as defined in wikipedia is set of beliefs and practices, as well as personal faith. The term "religion" refers to both the personal practices related to communal faith and to group rituals and communication stemming from shared conviction.
Religion is just a roadmap that guides you on your journey here on earth. It can either lead you to the truth or it can bring you elsewhere.
Salvation can only be attained through Jesus Christ. One has to open his heart and admit that he is a sinner and that he needs a redeemer. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23). And "If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and His word is not in us." (1 John 1:10). Be willing to repent and believed that Jesus Christ died for you, was buried and rose from the dead, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9).
Through prayer, invite Jesus into your life to become your personal Saviour. "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:10) "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13)
