The dialogue around religion vs. spirituality can often be confusing, controversial, and polarizing. I was so fascinated by these two concepts that I did my master's thesis and doctoral dissertation on studying the differences.  In this article, I will discuss what you need to know about differentiating between these two concepts to make an informed decision on living the life that God has called you to live while finding common ground among others exploring similar paths!

Why is it important to distinguish between religion and spirituality?

Humans have been exploring our spiritual connection to the divine God since ancient times in various forms. In modern society, it's important to explore one's values and beliefs while also considering how they may interact with outside sources, such as organized religion or philosophies. 

What Is the Difference between Religion and Spirituality?

Religion is typically a formal set of beliefs, practices, and values that adhere to established cultural practices.  This includes organized religion as well as personal religion based on specific traditions. Most religious people practice "religion" daily and celebrate religious holidays while participating in religious activities such as prayer or worship services.  

On the other hand, spirituality is an individual’s personal relationship and/or journey to discovering meaning and purpose through connecting with something greater than themselves, often referred to as a higher power or God. Spiritual growth involves:

• Developing relationships with this higher power.

• Practicing various spiritual rituals such as meditation or yoga.

• Reflecting on experiences from day-to-day life.

• Embracing certain philosophies within one’s faith system.

The above definitions are complex, I have begun to simplify the definition of religion and spirituality as religion sets the boundaries that defines a person's relationships with God (spirituality).  

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Religious vs. Spiritual Within Christianity

An inclusive religion may embrace spirituality as part of their religion, while traditional religion may view religion and spirituality as separate entities.  

Christianity is one religion where many practice both religious and spiritual practices such as prayer, worship services, and silent reflection - but this does not mean that religion encompasses all things spiritual.  A good example of this is 1 Corinthians 10:23-33. This passage talks about how we have freedom in Christ and may choose to make different choice from others who share our same faith, as long as those choices do not conflict with God's Word.

Now let's look further at what the Bible says about religion and spirituality within Christianity. 

What Does the Bible Say about Religion? 

The Bible does not speak favorably of religion (i.e., rules) without spirituality (relationship). This is because religion can control people or manipulate them into believing something without actually having faith in it. Jesus spoke said religious leaders who practiced their faith without truly believing in it themselves (Matthew 23:2-3). He also warned His followers against relying on outward appearances and traditions (Matthew 6:1-2). These passages highlight how Jesus viewed religion as an empty practice with no real power unless one’s heart was truly in it. 

What Does the Bible Say about Spirituality? 

While, the Bible speaks very positively of spirituality, it is noted when it does it includes religion (i.e., "boundaries" regarding one's relationship with God). To be spiritually minded means to be focused on growing closer to God through prayer, meditation, reading His Word, and other spiritual practices (Romans 8:6). It means surrendering one’s will to Him and trusting that His plans are better than our own (Proverbs 3:5-6). It also involves seeking knowledge of Him so we can live holy lives that honor Him (Colossians 1:9-11). This relationship with God brings true joy and peace because it is based on genuine faith rather than empty religious practices.  

Is it Better to be Spiritual or Religious? 

The final part of my research looked at the well-being of people who identify as a religious person only, a spiritual person only, both a religious and spiritual person and neither a religious person on spiritual person.  Based on my research, individuals who identify as both religious and spiritual were the most well adjusted.  

While the above finding was interesting, I also found that those who identified as neither religious on spiritual where better adjusted than those who identified as religious only or spiritual only.  This is likely due to religious only people ahering to rule but do not have a true relationship with God (i.e., they lack spirituality/intimacy).   Likewise, people who identify as spiritual only purse a relationships with God but lack rules or boundaries (religion) in that relationship.  A healthy relationship cannot exist without rules/boundaries.  

Final Thoughts on the Differences between Religion and Spirituality

While it is becoming more and more popular to completely separate religion and spirituality, I believe they are essential to each other and our pursuit of the life God is calling us to live.  We cannot experience spiritual growth without religion.  Just like we cannot pursue a healthy marriage,  relationship with our friends or anyone without having boundaries (i.e., rules. . . i.e., religion)  that tells us what is okay and what is not okay.  

Ultimately, religion and spirituality comes down to an individual's decision about how to connect with God— wether with a "traditional"  religion or with a "non-traditional" religion.  If you find your religious beliefs, religious communities, spiritual practices or something else are impacting your personal relationship with God, mental health or the pursuit of the life God is calling you to live, please consider meeting with a Christian therapist or life coach. You can search our directory here.  

About the Author: 

Corine Williams, Ph.D. is Clinical Psychologist that is currently seeing clients in the States of Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. You can find out more about her practice by visiting www.therapyforchristians.com/corinewilliams.  In addition to providing individual therapy, Dr. Williams is also passionate about writing books and designing merchandise that educate, uplift, and normalize mental health subject in the Christian community. You can find out more about her at  www.booksbycorine.com or by visiting her amazon profile here: https://www.amazon.com/Corine-Hyman/e/B00AWZ5FL2

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Disclaimer: the information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this article are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are looking for a Christian counselor near you, please check out our directory located here:  Christians Therapist Near Me