Empty religion focuses on self-serving motives and performance-based practices, while true faith centers on a genuine relationship with Christ. Many people attend church regularly but experience no real transformation because they're caught in religious motions rather than authentic devotion. Jesus describes himself as the bread of life, inviting us into intimate communion with God rather than mere ritual observance. The path to genuine faith involves surrendering to Christ, allowing God to work through us, and pursuing relationship over religious activities.