The gospel vs Religion

I have been talking alot, both in conversation and while preaching about the gospel versus religion. I bumped into what appears below on the subject that was written by Mark Driscoll. Do me a favor and read it and enjoy it and do your best to have conversations about what the gospel is and what it isn't and about how Jesus was not a fan of religion or religious people.


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.