The Difference Jesus Makes

Bradley Johnson • March 8, 2024

Relationship vs Religion

Near the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount Jesus says some sobering words. “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21).” These haunting words warn us that many who think they are Christians are not truly Christians. These “Christians” are considered nominal Christians because they are Christian in name (nominal) only and are not truly born again.


Acts 19:1-7 gives an example of nominal Christians by describing the Apostle Paul’s encounter with 12 disciples who think they are Christians. This passage teaches us the danger of religion without a relationship with Jesus, and it reminds us that Jesus makes all the difference. In preparation for Sunday, prayerfully read through this passage and consider what it teaches us about genuine faith.

  • Acts 19:1–7 (ESV)

    Paul in Ephesus

    1 And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. 


    2 And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 


    3 And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” 


    4 And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” 


    5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 


    6 And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. 


    7 There were about twelve men in all.

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