Well, it depends on what we mean by "religious." In general, "religious" is primarily a legalistic word. One need not be a Christian to be religious. Anyone who adheres to any religious system under the sun qualifies as religious. In fact, the Supreme Court of the United States of America has recognized Humanism as a religion, so one could be a very religious Humanist. I suppose one could even be a religious atheist.

Certainly Christ did not die simply to make us religious in that sense. But we might say, "Well, He died to make us religious Christians." But "religious" still seems to emphasize the performance and good works of the individual rather than his spiritual condition. One can be a very religious person, even in the Christian tradition, and still be eternally lost... Hellbound. That is to say; one can attend Christian church services every time the church doors are open... dutifully read a portion of Scripture every day... say prayers at meals and at bedtime, or any other time, and be considered very religious. But that same person might not truly be a Christian at all.

I prefer to stick with the Biblical terminology. Christ died for (because of) our sins. He died to give us new life; His life! He died for us so that He might become our Lord and Savior. "Religious" puts the focus on the works and merits of the individual. God's Word makes it clear that only Christ can live in a way that pleases God the Father. That's why the Apostle Paul says:

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

And we read in Titus 2:11-14:

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."

Please check out our other quiz answers.

Back to Quiz