Religion(devotion, piety)
“Religious worship, ceremonial observance”
Summary
Religion in Scripture refers to the outward expression of faith through worship, conduct, and devotion, with James defining 'pure religion' as caring for the helpless and living unstained by the world.
☩Biblical Usage
The word 'religion' (Greek threskeia) appears rarely in the New Testament, referring primarily to external religious observance. Paul spoke of his former zeal for the 'Jews' religion' (Judaism), indicating the system of beliefs and practices he had abandoned. The word emphasizes ceremonial worship and disciplined observance rather than inner faith, which Scripture typically expresses with other terms.
☩Pure and Vain Religion
James draws a crucial distinction between vain and pure religion. If anyone considers himself religious but does not bridle his tongue, his religion is worthless, deceiving his own heart. 'Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.' True religion thus manifests in compassionate action and moral purity, not mere ritual.
Related Verses57 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Religion," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VIII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Religion," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Religion," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).