For many the idea of religion brings a whole array of fears to mind: fears of being manipulated, controlled, obliged to believe something you don't, or worse, being expected to suspend any sense of reality.

Almost always we suspect 'their' motives: they want our money!

Jesus didn't often get angry, yet his opposition to religion-gone-wrong was fiery. On encountering a religion industry in the Temple, selling 'essential' religious merchandise at marked-up prices to the faithful poor, he was furious - 'he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables' (John, Chapter Two, Verse 15).

He spoke scathingly of those 'hypocrites' who saw their piety as a means of social advancement (Matthew, Chapter Six). And I simply love the way Jesus refused to let the religious with their rules and obligations constrain him or his followers from going about their business. Imagine it: befriending 'sinners' - what will the neighbours think? (Matthew, Chapter Nine, Verse 11).

I know that religion is open to abuse. I find it comforting to know that Jesus knew it too.

As a local church leader I am committed to ensuring that church is a safe place, free from such abuses.

My guess is that Jesus would not have been so angry about the corruption of his faith if he wasn't so aware of what it had to offer.

He once told a parable comparing the kingdom of God to treasure that had been hidden in a field. Stumbling on this treasure and recognising its value, the finder sold everything he had to buy the field.

My experience has been just that ? I wasn't looking to get into religion, but Jesus has proved time and again to be my most valuable discovery.

Christian Comment by Mr Robert Gurton of Elstree Free Church Leadership Team.