In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where expectations and obligations often feel overwhelming, the quote “Religion complicates, but Jesus simplifies” resonates deeply. It calls us to pause and reflect on the essence of faith—what it truly means to follow Christ. At its heart, this statement challenges us to disentangle faith from the complexities of human traditions and rediscover the simplicity and freedom Jesus offers.
The Weight of Complicated Religion
Religion, in its institutional form, often becomes a maze of rules, rituals, and expectations. This is not a new phenomenon. In Jesus’ time, the Pharisees and Sadducees had layered God’s commandments with additional laws and traditions that made faith feel burdensome. Jesus addressed this directly: “They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders” (Matthew 23:4). Instead of drawing people closer to God, these religious systems often alienated them.
Even today, many people experience religion as a source of guilt or obligation rather than joy and peace. The pressure to “do more,” “be better,” or “earn” God’s favour can leave believers feeling exhausted and unworthy. This focus on performance obscures the core of the gospel: grace.
Jesus: The Simplifier of Faith
Jesus came to strip away these layers of complexity. His message was not about following endless rules but about entering into a relationship with God. When asked which commandment was the greatest, Jesus responded with stunning clarity: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind” and “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). In these two commandments, He summarized the entire law and prophets.
Jesus’ life itself was a testament to simplicity. He lived humbly—born in a manger, walking among ordinary people, teaching profound truths through simple parables. He focused on relationships rather than rituals, healing the brokenhearted and inviting all to come to Him for rest: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest… For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
This simplicity is not just theoretical; it’s transformative. Jesus invites us to let go of our striving and rest in His grace. As Søren Kierkegaard once wrote, simplicity is about having an “undivided heart”—a heart fully devoted to God without distraction or division.
Stories That Illustrate Simplicity in Faith
The Bible is rich with examples of how Jesus simplified faith for those who came to Him:
- The Woman with the Issue of Blood (Mark 5:25-34): After years of suffering and failed treatments, she found healing simply by touching Jesus’ garment in faith.
- The Centurion’s Faith (Matthew 8:5-13): Believing that Jesus could heal his servant with just a word, this Roman officer demonstrated an uncomplicated trust that amazed even Jesus.
- The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:39-43): In his final moments, he simply asked Jesus to remember him—and was assured of paradise without performing any religious acts.
These stories remind us that faith is not about jumping through hoops but about trusting Jesus wholeheartedly.
Why Do We Complicate Faith?
Despite Jesus’ clear message, we often fall into the trap of complicating our spiritual lives. Why does this happen?
- Control: We add rules because they make us feel like we can control our salvation.
- Pride: Complex systems allow us to measure ourselves against others, feeding our ego when we “perform better.”
- Fear: We worry that simplicity might lead to complacency or misunderstanding.
But these motivations miss the point entirely. As Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Salvation is a gift; it cannot be earned.
Living Out Simplicity Today
How can we embrace the simplicity that Jesus offers in our daily lives?
- Focus on Relationship Over Rituals: Prioritize time with God—through prayer, worship, and reading Scripture—not out of obligation but out of love.
- Trust in Grace: Let go of perfectionism and rest in the truth that you are loved unconditionally by God.
- Love Others Authentically: Instead of getting caught up in debates or differences within Christianity, focus on living out Christ’s love.
- Practice Contentment: Simplify your life by letting go of materialism or unnecessary busyness. Seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33).
- Be Childlike in Faith: As Jesus said in Matthew 18:3, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” A childlike faith trusts without overthinking or doubting.
Read More About This Quote
Daily Devotional: Jesus Simplifies: A Richer Reflection on John 3:3
Words of Wisdom: Simplicity: A Path to Spiritual Wholeness
An Invitation to Simplify
If you’ve been feeling weighed down by complicated religion or struggling under the weight of expectations—whether self-imposed or external—take heart. Jesus came not to burden you but to set you free. He invites you into a life marked by love, trust, and peace—a life where faith is beautifully simple.
Reflect on this truth today: Religion complicates, but Jesus simplifies. Let it remind you that God’s love for you is not conditional on your performance but rooted in His grace.
So take a deep breath. Lay down your burdens at His feet. And step into the joyful simplicity of following Christ.
