Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world. (James 1:27)
Religion, that is false religion, is a very dangerous self-deception giving lost people a false sense of security. Most of these people who belong to and adhere to the doctrines of some organized false religion, are actually on that broad way that leads to destruction. (Matthew 7:13)
True saving faith, however, always results in pure and undefiled religion; Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. (James 2:17) Salvation is by faith alone in the gospel of Jesus Christ alone. The order is crucial. True saving faith will always produce pure and undefiled religion. Yet, any good works without true faith in Christ are worthless in the sight of our God and Father.
I have found those who are self-righteous and outwardly religious, like the Pharisees in Jesus' day, are usually the most opposed to the exclusivity of the gospel of Christ alone. Of course nothing is impossible with God and many of us, including even some of the Pharisees, were saved having been previously actively involved in a false religious organization.
Are you truly child of God, saved by God's grace through faith alone in the finish work of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? If you were arrested for being a Christian and a follower of Jesus Christ, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Maranatha!