Religion versus the Gospel
4 Comments
The Difference between Religion and the Gospel
By Pastor Mark Driscoll
Religion says, if I obey, God will love me. Gospel says, because God loves me, I can obey.
Religion has good people & bad people. Gospel has only repentant and unrepentant people.
Religion values a birth family. Gospel values a new birth.
Religion depends on what I do. Gospel depends on what Jesus has done.
Religion claims that sanctification justifies me. Gospel claims that justification enables sanctification.
Religion has the goal to get from God. Gospel has the goal to get God.
Religion sees hardships as punishment for sin. Gospel sees hardship as sanctified affliction.
Religion is about me. Gospel is about Jesus.
Religion believes appearing as a good person is the key. Gospel believes that being honest is the key.
Religion has an uncertainty of standing before God. Gospel has certainty based upon Jesus' work.
Religion sees Jesus as the means. Gospel sees Jesus as the end.
Religion ends in pride or despair. Gospel ends in humble joy.
4 Comments | Login to Post Comments
Bryce Hansen on Jun 10, 2007 10:21am
Mark,
When I read, "Religion sees Jesus as the means. Gospel sees Jesus as the end," I just thought of all of the sermons I've heard that tack Jesus on at the end as a way to get out of hell. I really appreciate the truth that you point to in this statement. Thanks for all you do.
Kathleen Wynveen on Jun 14, 2007 3:16am
Mark-
Great comparisons. May I add another?
Religion is never enough. Gospel satisfies.
Rob Burns on Jun 19, 2007 9:06am
Good stuff Mark! We are really working on the first one with our people right now.
Deborah York on Aug 10, 2007 9:31am
Pastor Mark: Thank you for this statement and for the series you did on Ruth. Over the past few weeks, I've been listening to your Mars Hill Church sermons via iTunes podcasts. Thank you for your transparent and humble servanthood. Blessings on you and your family.