Jesus Hates Religion?

Alex Himaya, the author of “Jesus Hates Religion: Finding Grace in a Works-Driven Culture,” made the claim that religion is a “man-made path to God.” He said, “With a title like that I’ve had to field quite a few questions. ‘Can Jesus really hate?’ ‘Isn’t Jesus himself religious?’ ‘Why would Jesus hate religion?’ I think the answer to nearly all of these questions goes to the core of who Jesus really is. He’s about love and relationship, not rules and religion.”

Mr. Himaya is convinced that telling others “our idea of what’s right and wrong” comes off as “confrontational and condemning, rather than relational and loving.” Paul commanded us to speak “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15; cp. Colossians 4:6). When we fail to do this, we damage the cause of truth.

However, this does not mean that we shy away from proclaiming truth, for proclaiming “right and wrong” should never be “our idea,” but the teaching of the New Testament. The “law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2) includes commandments, and if we break them, we sin (1 John 3:4). This is not judgmental — it is being truthful.

Kyle Campbell

Bible Lectureship

(March 17-20, 2024)

prayer study book

We would love to have you as our guest! 

Register below for the event, and we’ll also send you a prayer e-devotional. Our gift to you.