Driving to and from an errand today, the “car stereo” was playing an audio book by a favorite Bible teacher 1. His teaching is so deep and methodical; it is like a “gym-workout” for my brain. Last week, with this same audio book teaching I was lead to stop at the public library and get the book he was teaching. Yes it is another of those books about the Book.

Many times I can’t follow his spoken ‘thoughts’ without stopping to write down one or two. That’s what motivated me to stop for the book. The teacher’s discussion of religion and the gospel lit up for me. I had never seen these two words as so very different.

I quote:

2There is then, a great gulf between the understanding that God accepts us because of our efforts and the understanding that God accepts us because of what Jesus has done. Religion operates on the principle “I obey--therefore I am accepted by God.” But the operating principle of the gospel is “I am accepted by God through what Christ has done—therefore I obey.”

The primary difference is that of motivation. In religion, we try to obey the divine standards out of fear. In the gospel, the motivation is one of gratitude for the blessing we have already received because of Christ.

So, as we thankfully proceed toward this Christmas Eve 2013, what motivates us?

Religion with rules? Gospel grace?

I leave you with a devotional excerpt that recommends the best way to enjoy our Christmas! Follow the performance instructions for the song Peace on Earth, Played moderately, sweetly with reverence. Remember these as we shop in crowded stores, as we run out of time, money, and energy.

He hath shewed thee, Oh man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? Micah 6:8

Joe Mileham

____________________________________________

1 Timothy Keller
2 Chapter 11, The Reason for God; Belief in an Age of Skepticism, Timothy Keller