"Let's Speak About Religion"

James writes: "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." (Jam. 1:26-27)

Our English word 'religion' in these verses is the Greek word "threskia". W.E. Vines expository dictionary of biblical words says this Greek word "signifies religion in its external aspect, religious worship, especially the ceremonial service of religion." In other words it carries the idea of our worship. It is the same word used in Col. 2:18 in speaking of 'the worship of angels'. It is one of those words used in the Greek which comes into our English language "worship". This lets us know that worship is more than things done in an assembly but it is our life!

James says that if a man thinks of himself as a religious man, a worshiper of God, he must bridle his tongue. If one does not bridle their tongue their religion (worship) is worthless! They are deceiving their own heart because they are saying they are a worshiper of God while at the same time they speak in a way as to show they are not truly bound to God.

James also speaks that "pure religion" (worship) has to do with caring for those that need our caring. Undefiled worship is caring for the widows and the orphans. This is what shows us truly bound to God because we are bringing Him glory and honor when caring for those less fortunate. "Pure religion" (worship) has to do with how we live with and for those who need our help and love. God is and has always been concerned with how we help those who need our help.

James says that all of this is "pure religion" or "worship". It continues however to carry over to "keeping oneself unstained by the world." Real, true God centered lives that worship God with their lives means we are not stained by the ways of the world. Their life-styles, their thought process and their dress codes! This should give us pause to think and realize how important everyday living is and what it reveals about our lives.