Spiritual or Religious?

During my last visit to the dentist, I overheard a hygienist asking another patient if he faithfully brushed his teeth. He confidently replied that he did so religiously. I find it interesting how we often use faith-related words to describe everyday activities, from brushing our teeth to religiously following our favorite sporting team.

Recently I spoke with a marriage/family counselor about their spiritual beliefs; they said that they were “spiritual but not religious”. As I pressed to learn what this meant, I found their definition fuzzy.

"Spiritual but not religious" (SBNR) describes someone who “believes in a higher power but doesn't adhere to the doctrines or practices of organized religions.” Of course, an adherence to that which prioritizes a personal, internal exploration of spirituality rather than one based in a community, is, in essence, a religion unto itself.

While those describing themselves as SBNR mean that they do not go to church, conservative Protestants might use that same SBNR phrase to express how a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is of greater importance than religiously attending church. The “religion” that these conservatives are separating themselves from is very different than the “religion” that the “nones” and “dones” are referring to.

The SBNRs are not alone in their negative views on religion; you too may shun the title of being religious.  However, most are rejecting religion because of a faulty definition.

The word “religion” comes from the Latin root for the English word ligament — the connecting tissue between muscle and bone. Therefore, religion essentially means to reconnect something that has been broken, severed, or torn apart. To be “religious” then rightfully describes how one restores a broken relationship with God. Therefore, when used properly, it offers a perfect description and picture of our faith in Christ.

Nearly 60% of Americans say that faith is very important in their lives. To understand what this means requires us to define the faith that is important to them.  Rather than looking to the Bible as the source of spiritual truth, the SBNRs would say that “spiritual” relates to understanding what is true for themselves and using this knowledge to guide their behavior. Their spirituality results in more of an internal peace that leads them to be kind or respectful, rather than a spirituality that draws them nearer to “God”.

In contrast, the follower of Christ finds their hope in the good news revealed in the Bible and seen in Christ. This is not a privatized faith experience like the SBNR, nor a  “Jesus and me” message devoid of the gospel. It’s a hope rooted in history and truth, not mere feelings and thoughts.

PEW Research surveyed those identifying themselves as SBNRs and then categorized their responses based on the types of beliefs, experiences, and other concepts they mentioned. Their research showed that 22% of Americans identify themselves as SBNR. While there is variety in what an individual may mean by this, it generally expresses how spirituality was very important, but that traditional faith gatherings have little importance to them. Understanding that mind helps put the following results into context.

SBNRs are less likely than others to: believe in God as described in the Bible (20% vs. 82%); pray daily (21% vs. 64%); and attend religious services at least once a week (2% vs. 36%). Furthermore, SBNR Americans are much less likely than religious Americans to say they believe in heaven (54% vs. 93%) or hell (40% vs. 83%). However, a list of things someone doesn’t believe or practice offers little help in defining what they believe about spirituality or religion. An undefined faith system built around our own beliefs will inevitably fail us.

The Apostle Paul warns,  “For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.” (2 Timothy 4:3–4)

While to be spiritual but not religious may sound good, without being rooted in something greater than ourselves, it will leave us empty and fail us when trials come. Followers of Christ have a better hope; one not based on themselves or religious traditions but on Christ alone. “But now we have confidence in a better hope, through which we draw near to God.” (Hebrews 7:19b ) In Christ, sinful humans can be reconnected with God through Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the cross. Knowing this allows us to be both spiritual and religious.