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Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever
is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is
admirable
- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. --
Philippians 4:8 |
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WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN? |
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Introduction
As I've talked with people face-to-face, on the phone, via e-mail, or
chatting in chat rooms, I began to realize that everyone has a different
concept of what it means to be a Christian. How can there be so many
different viewpoints? There are various definitions in the dictionary, our
religious leaders tell us what they've been taught, and our peers tell us
something else. One explanation is that we all come from different
backgrounds, different denominations. But there's one main reason we can all
define "Christian" some way other than the person sitting next to us - we're
each unique individuals. Every person who calls themselves a Christian is at
an entirely personal level in their walk with God. I've used that word,
"personal", on other pages of this site. Everyone's relationship with God is
to be a personal experience, not one based on any other person's
relationship.
For my visitors who are here seeking God and the truth, let me start
with the basic definition of "Christian". A Christian is any person who
considers themselves to be a follower of Jesus Christ. These are not
perfect people. All of us stumble from time to time. And, as a word of
warning, all of the people you meet who use the title of "Christian" aren't
all true Christians. There are also a lot of people who will say they aren't
Christians when in fact they are despite what they say.
Now you're asking, "How can someone who says they're not a Christian be
a Christian?" Anybody can use whatever label they choose. I've often said
that I'm not a Christian but a "Generic Follower of Christ". To some, the
word Christian entails belonging to a specific denomination or following a
given set of beliefs and rituals. Although they've accepted Jesus as their
personal Lord and Savior, they refuse to be subjected to the ideas of what
most people consider it takes to be a Christian.
A Christian . . .
. . . has accepted Jesus Christ as their
personal Lord and Savior.
. . . believes in the one and only God.
. . . has asked that their sins be forgiven
and has sincerely repented.
. . . has their priorities in order - God,
family, self.
. . . obeys God's laws.
. . . does not turn their back on someone
in need.
A Christian is not a true Christian if they . .
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. . . continue to commit the same sins
without remorse after asking forgiveness.
. . . place their wants and needs above
everyone around them even though another's needs may be greater.
. . . are constantly condemning others
without seeing their own imperfections and making corrections.
. . . believe their actions (church
attendance, baptism, good deeds, etc.) are all they need to live eternally.
These lists are not all-inclusive. They contain just a
few of the points that I believe are the most important. Some of you may be
thinking, "Doesn't she fit in the second list because she's pointing out the
faults?" I've only attempted to point out the difference between the two
types of Christians. I'm not perfect either and I know I'll only reach the
perfection God has planned when I die.
Summary
It takes more than saying "I'm a Christian" to be a true follower of
Christ. Being a Christian is something that occurs in a person's whole
being. They feel the presence of the Lord in their heart, mind, and soul. To
them, God isn't just some figure-head to meet in the future. They attempt to
live what they believe. These people aren't just putting on a costume to
impress others and then go home and abuse their families.
To me, being a Christian is much more than a part to play in life's
unfolding drama. Being a follower of Christ means to live my life according
to his will, not mine. There are laws that have to be followed - God's laws.
It means that life is not always about me. I've learned to accept the good
things with more thanks and good cheer. However, the bad times are woven
into life. Even in my times of trouble I have the assurance that help is
always available. I can learn and grow from these rough spots.
So how would I answer the question "What is a Christian?" A Christian is
anyone who has the faith to believe in the great I AM. Many of them
will be noticed by only a few people. They use whatever meager means and
talents they have to serve God. And, though it may sound trite, they are the
people who "not only talk the talk, but walk the walk". |
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