How do I find the true religion?
The answer of the Bible
The Bible explains how to find out the difference between true and false religion by saying, "By their fruits you will know them. Do men ever gather grapes from briers, or figs from thistles?" (Matthew 7:16). Just as you can tell a vine from a thorn bush by its fruit, you can tell true religion from false religion by its fruit, that is, its characteristics. Here are a few essential characteristics of true religion:
It does not rely on philosophies, but teaches the truth from the Bible (John 4:24; 17:17). This includes biblical teaching about the soul and the hope of a paradise on earth (Psalm 37:29; Isaiah 35:5, 6; Ezekiel 18:4). It is also not afraid to expose religious lies (Matthew 15:9; 23:27, 28).
She brings people closer to God and uses his name, Jehovah (Psalm 83:18; Isaiah 42:8; John 17:3, 6). It does not present him as an incomprehensible and distant being, but shows that he wants to be our friend (James 4:8).
It foregrounds Jesus' role as Savior (Acts 4:10, 12). Its followers keep Jesus' commandments and follow his example (John 13:15; 15:14).
It sees the kingdom of God as the only hope for humanity. Its followers enjoy telling others about the kingdom of God (Matthew 10:7; 24:14).
It teaches genuine love of neighbor (John 13:35). This includes mutual respect and openness-regardless of skin color, culture, language, or background (Acts 10:34, 35). Motivated by charity, its followers do not go to war (Micah 4:3; 1 John 3:11, 12).
It has no paid clergy, nor does it bestow lofty religious titles (Matthew 23:8-12; 1 Peter 5:2, 3).
It is absolutely neutral in political matters (John 17:16; 18:36). However, its adherents respect the state and abide by its laws, in keeping with the Bible's command, "Render unto Caesar [representing state authority] the things that are his, and render unto God the things that are his." (Mark 12:17, Hope for All; Romans 13:1, 2).
It is a way of life, not a mere tradition or formality. Its adherents adhere to the high morals of the Bible in all areas of life (Ephesians 5:3-5; 1 John 3:18). However, they are not fanatical or overly serious about it; they enjoy life and are glad to be servants of "the happy God" (1 Timothy 1:11).
They will always remain a minority (Matthew 7:13, 14). Followers of true religion are often ridiculed, mocked, or persecuted for living by God's standards (Matthew 5:10-12).
When it comes to religion, you should not rely only on your feelings
Choosing one's religion based only on one's feelings does not necessarily lead to the goal. The Bible predicted a time when people would "[choose] religious teachers according to their taste, who tell them only what they like to hear" (2 Timothy 4:3, New Evangelistic Translation). In contrast, the Bible urges us to follow the religion "that is pure and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father"-even if that religion is unpopular (James 1:27, footnote; John 15:18, 19).
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
