I’m sure there will be opinions all over the place on this question, but let’s keep it civil. In recent times it almost seems that people associate the term “Christian” in a negative connotation. Why is that?
I think it’s because so many “Christians” are very judgmental. They may think someone doesn’t look the part. But, look at those God chose to do some of the most important things in the earliest of times. He didn’t choose the most celebrated kings or the richest men. He selected a young girl to birth His son. That’s because God sees the heart. He doesn’t look at us the same way others do.
Therefore it should be no surprise that God will judge us by our hearts. Is believing in God, going to church, and being a “good” person enough? We can’t fool him by saying we believe in Him. He knows our hearts, right? Going to church doesn’t make someone a Christian either. Anyone can go to church, just as anyone can read the Bible and memorize scripture. There’s no commitment in that.
So, what makes someone a worthy Christian? We all sin and I think we can agree on that. If someone says they believe in God, but does nothing to learn more about God or to live in a manner that resembles God, there’s something wrong.
If we truly believe in God, we’ll share our faith with others. We don’t want anyone to miss out on the gift of grace that is offered to all. Our actions will be to help the poor and downtrodden because that is what we’re called to do.
In James 2, he argues that we can’t have faith without works because if we have faith in God our lives will not stay the same. People will be able to tell by the way we live we are Christians. We shouldn’t have to tell them.
When you are encouraged by your church leaders to read the scriptures, take that to heart. When you make it a habit, you’ll begin to understand God and so much will begin to make sense. I’m not sure someone could ever know everything in the Bible because God reveals mysteries to me every time I open the Good Book. Make it a habit!
Christians who don’t act like Christians, make it difficult for those who try to live the way they are called to. Trust is difficult when we have to fight against the negative way so many portray Christians. But, we were told there would be wolves in sheep’s clothing and false teachers. There was never a promise that it would be easy.
Jesus paid the price for our sins and we’ve been forgiven. It’s a free gift, but each person has to except it for yourself. No one else can do it for you.
Never forget to test what you’re told against the Word of God. That is one source of absolute truth that is available to us. The other is listening to God through the Spirit.
In Faith,
Pam
Where God Leads 