Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. (ESV) 2 Timothy 3:5
Religion is a form of spiritual life without the power of God. What makes Christian lives different from religion is an active and daily power of God in our lives. Without the presence of God in our spiritual activities, we may create religion. If we do not watch out, one can easily develop religiosity by doing Christian stuff repeatedly without experiencing God personally. Today many churches have become a religion and a monument rather than a move of the Holy Spirit. Pharisees are the best examples of religion. They had religious zeal, strict religious practices and deep understanding of theology but they failed to cultivate a heart to heart relationship with God as an experiential reality. This is why Jesus called them hypocrites. We need to practice the presence of God on a daily basis to avoid giving birth to religion in our lives. We are not called to practice a religion rather experience an intimate relationship with Jesus. Christian life is all about the presence of God in our lives. It is all about the daily work of Holy Spirit in our lives. Focus more on your personal relationship with God and experiencing his presence personally on daily basis. Watch out for religion.