When examining Jesus’ teachings, it becomes clear that He didn’t promote a specific religion as we understand it today. Instead, Jesus emphasized a way of life grounded in love for God and neighbor, summed up in the greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40). Rather than focusing on rituals or labels, He called people to embrace the Kingdom of God—an invitation to live with humility, compassion, justice, and mercy. His central message was not about religious affiliation but about relationship—with God, and with one another.
Jesus also pointed to Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), urging people to follow His example and teachings rather than adopt a man-made religious system. The early Christians saw this as a new covenant rooted in grace, not law. Following Jesus means living out His principles—loving deeply, serving humbly, forgiving freely, and seeking truth in the Spirit. Keep reading for a deeper dive into how Jesus’ message shaped early Christianity and what it means to truly walk in His footsteps today.
When we dive into the teachings of Jesus, one question that often pops up is: What religion did Jesus say to follow? You might be surprised to learn that Jesus didn’t explicitly endorse a specific religion in the way we think of religions today. Instead, He focused on a way of life rooted in love, faith, and obedience to God. Let’s explore this topic and understand what Jesus really wanted us to follow.
Jesus’ Core Message
The Greatest Commandment
Jesus’ teachings are centered around two main commandments. When asked which commandment was the greatest, Jesus replied:
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40)
These commandments encapsulate the essence of Jesus’ message. He emphasized a deep, personal relationship with God and genuine love and compassion for others.
The Kingdom of God
Another key aspect of Jesus’ teachings is the Kingdom of God. Jesus frequently spoke about this kingdom, which isn’t a physical place but a spiritual reality. He said:
“The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15)
In this context, following Jesus means embracing the principles of God’s kingdom: living righteously, seeking justice, and practicing mercy.
The Way, The Truth, and The Life
Jesus made it clear that following Him was the path to a true relationship with God. He said:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
Here, Jesus isn’t pointing to a specific religion but rather to Himself as the way to God. This means that following Jesus is about living according to His teachings and example.
The Early Christians
The Birth of Christianity
After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, His disciples began spreading His teachings. This movement eventually became known as Christianity. Early Christians were initially seen as a sect within Judaism, but their belief in Jesus as the Messiah set them apart.
The term “Christian” was first used in Antioch to describe Jesus’ followers (Acts 11:26). These early believers focused on Jesus’ teachings, the resurrection, and the promise of eternal life.
A New Covenant
Jesus’ teachings introduced a new covenant between God and humanity. This new covenant wasn’t about strict adherence to religious laws but about faith in Jesus and His sacrifice. The Apostle Paul explained it this way:
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)
Jesus and Other Religions
Respect for Other Beliefs
Jesus never dismissed the faiths of others. In His interactions, He showed respect and understanding. For instance, when Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, He didn’t condemn her beliefs. Instead, He revealed profound truths about worship and faith:
“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.” (John 4:23)
Inclusivity
Jesus’ message was inclusive. He reached out to Jews, Samaritans, Romans, and others, showing that God’s love is for everyone. His parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates that compassion transcends religious and ethnic boundaries.
Living Out Jesus’ Teachings
Faith in Action
To follow Jesus is to put faith into action. It means embodying His teachings in our daily lives. This includes:
- Loving others: Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44).
- Serving others: Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing that greatness comes from serving others (John 13:14-15).
- Forgiveness: Jesus emphasized forgiveness, even in the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” (Matthew 6:12)
Personal Relationship with God
Following Jesus also means cultivating a personal relationship with God. This involves prayer, reading the scriptures, and living in accordance with God’s will.
Conclusion: A Path, Not a Religion
So, what religion did Jesus say to follow? The answer lies not in a specific religious label but in a way of life that aligns with His teachings. Jesus called us to love God, love others, and live out our faith through acts of kindness, justice, and humility.
Jesus’ teachings form the foundation of Christianity, but His message transcends religious boundaries. It’s about a transformative relationship with God and living a life that reflects His love and truth.
If you’re looking to follow Jesus, focus on His words, embrace His example, and strive to live a life that honors God and serves others. This is the true path that Jesus laid out for us.
FAQs: What Religion Did Jesus Say to Follow?
1. Did Jesus establish Christianity?
No, Jesus didn’t establish Christianity as an organized religion during His lifetime. Instead, He focused on teaching principles of love, faith, and obedience to God. Christianity as a distinct religion emerged after His resurrection, when His followers began spreading His teachings.
2. What did Jesus mean by “the Kingdom of God”?
The Kingdom of God refers to a spiritual realm where God reigns supreme. It’s not a physical place but a state of being where God’s will is fulfilled. Jesus taught that this kingdom is near and accessible through repentance and faith.
3. Why didn’t Jesus specify a particular religion to follow?
Jesus emphasized a relationship with God rather than adherence to a specific set of religious rules. He taught that loving God and loving others are the greatest commandments, which transcend religious boundaries.
4. How did early Christians practice their faith?
Early Christians followed Jesus’ teachings, shared the message of His resurrection, and lived in communities where they practiced love, forgiveness, and service. They initially saw themselves as a sect within Judaism before Christianity emerged as a distinct faith.
5. Did Jesus respect other religions?
Yes, Jesus showed respect and understanding towards people of different faiths. His interactions with individuals like the Samaritan woman at the well demonstrate His inclusive approach and emphasis on true worship in spirit and truth.
6. What does it mean to follow Jesus today?
Following Jesus today means living according to His teachings: loving God, loving others, practicing forgiveness, serving others, and maintaining a personal relationship with God through prayer and scripture.
7. What are the core commandments Jesus taught?
Jesus taught that the greatest commandments are to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself. These commandments encapsulate His teachings and form the foundation of living a life that honors God.
8. Can people of other religions follow Jesus’ teachings?
Yes, Jesus’ teachings are universal and can be followed by anyone regardless of their religious background. His principles of love, compassion, and justice are applicable to all.
9. How does the concept of the New Covenant relate to Jesus’ teachings?
The New Covenant, introduced by Jesus, emphasizes faith and grace over strict adherence to religious laws. It’s about a personal relationship with God, made possible through Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.
10. Where can I learn more about Jesus’ teachings?
You can learn more about Jesus’ teachings by reading the Gospels in the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). These books provide a detailed account of His life, teachings, and the principles He advocated.
