Religion Is A Slave Master | Pastor David Payne

In this powerful and relatable message, Pastor David unpacks Galatians 4 to highlight one of the most foundational truths in Christianity: the difference between religion and relationship. With warmth, humor, and biblical depth, he walks through how many believers—whether new in faith, seasoned Christians, or spiritual seekers—can unknowingly drift into a performance-based mindset. Drawing from personal stories and cultural examples, he explains how religion teaches us to earn acceptance, while true relationship with Jesus invites us into freedom, identity, and grace.

Pastor David challenges us to reflect on whether we’re relating to God like slaves trying to avoid punishment, or like sons and daughters who are already accepted and loved. He illustrates this with Galatians 4:4–7, where Paul emphasizes that we are no longer slaves but heirs with Christ. This shift from law to grace isn’t just theological—it transforms how we live, pray, worship, and respond to sin. Instead of striving for approval, we live from a place of already being approved because of what Jesus has done.

Pastor David warns against extremes—legalistic performance on one side, and a passive “God-loves-me-no-matter-what” attitude on the other. True transformation happens in the tension between grace and truth, where devotion—not fear—leads our walk with God. Using relatable metaphors (like muddy grandkids walking into the house), he reminds us that God doesn’t kick us out for our messes. Instead, He cleans us up, helps us grow, and invites us back into relationship.

Whether you’ve walked with Christ for decades or are just exploring faith, this message from Galatians 4 will reshape your understanding of God’s grace, your identity as His child, and what it means to truly live free. Watch until the end for practical insights and biblical encouragement on how to walk as an heir, not a slave.

Key Scriptures:
Galatians 4:3-9
Colossians 2:8
John 14:15
Luke 15