RELIGION

The Gospel of Jesus Christ provides a way for man to be forgiven of his sins, be reconciled to God, and gain eternal life. By grace through faith, we receive that gift ... If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)

Trouble is ... this life-giving message has been corrupted by 'religion'.   

Man's desire to play a part in his own salvation has complicated what was intended to be a simple act of faith. He has usurped and defiled that which was designed, realized, and completed in Christ ... by 'adding to' or 'subtracting from' the Word of God. 

Paul spoke of our day ... The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2 Timothy 4:3-4) 

The truth concerning Jesus Christ is not 'religious' by nature, nor can it be influenced by one's prideful desire to control the terms of saving faith. As a matter of fact, even if no one believed in divine truth ... it would still be the truth. 

It stands alone for it is of God, not of man. Those who dismiss it cannot invalidate it. 

Churches that contort the Gospel message can't make the same claim concerning their doctrines. Those teachings only exist in the hearts and minds of like-minded followers. Therefore, since it does not align with God's truth, they become personally offended when their beliefs are rejected. 

True believers put their trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ. He is the Beginning and the End of our faith. Like Paul, we have a testimony that doesn't put stumbling blocks in the seeker's way ... For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:2)

Don't think of Christianity as a 'religion' ... but an intimate relationship with God through His Son.