Why is it important to have a personal relationship with Jesus?

Having a personal relationship with Jesus is essential because it transforms the mere act of religious observance into a vibrant faith rooted in knowing Him as Savior. This relationship allows believers to grasp the significance of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, not just historically but personally—acknowledging that He died for their sins. The sermon emphasizes that many may celebrate religious events like Easter without truly knowing Christ, which risks being swept along by cultural practices rather than experiencing genuine faith. This relationship is further enshrined in the idea that without personal faith, one might be caught up in external expressions of faith without understanding their true meaning.