What does it mean to be spiritual but not religious?

Answer

Those in certain religious or Christian circles have likely heard someone say, “I am spiritual but not religious.” In fact, over the last decade, 22 percent of the population—approximately 30 percent of individuals aged eighteen to thirty—have embraced the “spiritual but not religious” identity (source, accessed 2/9/2023). The exact meaning of this phrase may not be entirely clear, as religious and spiritual can sometimes be used interchangeably.

For individuals who are not Christians, being spiritual but not religious could signify a belief in spiritual aspects of life—such as the soul—without adhering to any specific religion. These individuals do not follow figures like Christ, Muhammed, or Buddha but seek their own “transcendent” spiritual path, embracing spirituality in a New Age manner.

Many people—both within and outside Christianity—perceive religion as associated with dogmas, doctrines, and rituals, while spirituality is viewed as focusing on the heart, emotions, and personal experiences. Religion is often considered cold, lacking passion, and even lifeless. Conversely, spirituality is seen as warm, passionate, and vibrant. Some argue that religious practice within a structured tradition diminishes one’s spirituality, leading to a mere formality rather than genuine or devout faith. Therefore, individuals who claim to be spiritual but not religious aim to avoid embodying those described in Matthew 15:8, where God states, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Spiritual individuals do not feign piety during religious ceremonies; instead, they genuinely embody piety and maintain deep spiritual devotion beyond formal services.

In the minds of some, religion has become synonymous with corrupt institutions, organizations, and rigid hierarchies.

ations, and power. Anti-religious sentiment is increasing worldwide, with individuals critiquing the Church, its doctrines, and its authorities. Public scandals and shortcomings among followers have further fueled this opposition. These circumstances lead some to distance themselves from organized religion; nonetheless, embracing spirituality remains socially acceptable. Choosing a more general spirituality over traditional religion can make practicing Christianity appear less contentious. Identifying as spiritual but not religious confirms a yearning for goodness, eternity, and the divine while also liberating individuals from divisive religious practices and rituals (ibid., accessed 2/9/2023). Being spiritual but not religious personalizes one’s faith, turning it into a private affair rather than the collective concern of a church.

It is accurate that salvation is a personal decision; John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Each individual must personally choose whether to accept God’s offer of salvation and be “crucified with Christ” «I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. », (Galatians 2:20). However, following salvation, the Church plays a crucial role in a believer’s journey towards sanctification. The Church is not an insignificant part of God’s design; it is considered Christ’s bride and body (Ephesians 5:25-27). Consequently, congregating with fellow believers is mandated: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). In Philippians 2:2, Paul urges believers to have the same mindset and love, as we are united in the same Spirit. A congregation that adheres to these directives will not propagate the lifeless religion that many criticize; instead, it will be vibrant and brimming with affection for Christ and others. Abandoning organized religion to be “spiritual but not religious” is not in line with the teachings of the Bible.

Striving to be spiritual but not religious attempts to address certain perceived issues within Christianity—such as worship lacking emotion or the presence of nominal believers merely going through the motions—yet it overlooks the purpose of the Church and God’s instructions to come together in fellowship for mutual edification and support.