You Must Be Born Again: Religion Cannot Save You by stella ashworth
Religion may fill a church pew, but only Jesus can transform a heart and open the door to Heaven.
"Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." (John 3:3)
Being part of a denomination will not get us into Heaven. Debating the rapture will not get us into Heaven. Attending church every Saturday or Sunday will not get us into Heaven. Singing in the choir, preaching sermons, serving on committees, or being seen on camera doing the work of God will not get us into Heaven.
Jesus never said, "You must be religious." Jesus never said, "You must belong to a certain church." Jesus never said, "You must have perfect attendance." He said: "You must be born again." (John 3:7)
To be born again is to experience a transformation of the heart through faith in Jesus Christ. It is repentance from sin, surrender to Christ, and receiving new life through the Holy Spirit.
The old life passes away, and a new creation emerges. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
When you truly understand what it means to be born again, your entire perspective changes. You no longer live for appearances but for God's glory. You no longer seek the applause of people but the approval of Christ. You no longer practice religion merely as an outward duty; you pursue a living relationship with Jesus.
The greatest question is not: "What denomination do I belong to?" "How often do I attend church?" "How many ministries do I serve in?"
The greatest question is: Have I been born again? Because on the day we stand before God, our titles, positions, and religious activities will mean nothing without Christ.
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven." (Matthew 7:21)
Today, examine your heart. Don't settle for religion when Jesus offers transformation. Don't settle for outward appearances when God desires inward renewal.
You must be born again. And when you truly are, everything changes.
Stella Ashworth - Bay Talk.