Trending Faith: Religion vs. a Relationship with God

Female student worshiping during Chapel with hashtag trending faith

GCU Pastor and Dean of Students Tim Griffin and College of Theology Dean Jason Hiles, PhD, discussed the differences between religion and having a relationship with God on this week’s Trending Faith.

“I don’t have a technical definition of religion, but I think most people understand it as a set of regular activities that you do around your faith,” Pastor Tim explained. He added that a relationship is, “intimate knowledge and understanding of someone else. I think that’s what we want of God—and I think that’s what God wants of us.”

Pastor Tim went on to explain that there may be some overlap between religion and the relationship with God, similar to how some families have routines as part of their relationship and spending time together.

Hear their full answers by watching the video below:

Read more about finding that relationship with God by checking out the post, “Where are You?” If you would like the chance to hear your questions answered, email them to trendingfaith@gcu.edu.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.