RELIGION (Root word) “to return to bondage”

Toxic—anything containing poisonous material capable of causing serious sickness or even death.

PERVERT: (Greek): to pervert, to corrupt, to distort or to poison.

2 Common Elements of Toxic Religion

#1. It focuses on the external rather than on the internal.

#2. It promotes spiritual pride.

Romans 3:20-22 (NIV, 84)
“Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known…22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.”

TALK IT OVER

1. Religion vs. Relationship--How have you personally experienced the difference between trying to “earn” God’s approval through religious effort and living out of the freedom of a relationship with Jesus?

2. External vs. Internal--Jesus warned against focusing on outward appearances while neglecting the heart (Matthew 23:25). In what ways do you see “external-focused” religion show up in the church today, and how can we help each other live from the inside out?

3. Pride vs. Humility--The Pharisee compared himself to others, while the tax collector simply cried for mercy (Luke 18:9–14). Why do you think spiritual pride is so dangerous? How can humility shape our testimony so that it points people to the pure gospel rather than to ourselves?