Unfortunately, today this question is being asked. Why? Aren’t there enough Christians in the world for anyone to know what a Christian is? The problem here is that it’s almost like the game show “Truth or Consequences”. The point of this show is to figure out who is telling the truth. In some cases the three people claiming to be the same person causes the contestants become puzzled and confused. Eventually, one stands as the person that the three were claiming to be. This is indeed what is going on when it comes to trying to find out what a Christian is. There are in our world many claiming to be Christian displaying many examples, yet only one example seems to be the correct one. That example is the correct one is the one of Jesus the Christ.
So, what is a Christian?
A Christian is a follower of Christ according to the knowledge that he or she has of Christ. But, it’s not knowledge alone. The individual must act upon that knowledge in faith and love. This knowledge is power. This knowledge is life-changing.
A Christian is not just a follower of Christ, but is also friend of Christ.
As a friend one talks to the other and spends quality time together. They respect one another opinion, although at times they may disagree. A friend is willing to die for the other. When a friend is in trouble the one will help the other, he or she will come to the other aid in the time of need. Ask yourself how many people have you kept as friends that have been dishonest with you one time or another? When looking at Jesus as our friend we see a true friend. He is honest with us. He tells us our true condition then he tries to provide the remedy. He sends His Holy Spirit and his Father’s Word. In Him we see one that will die for us, even when we are acting like his enemies. Jesus will go out of His way to help us. But, does Jesus see this in us? Jesus example is the example that the Christian should follow. Are you a representative the way that he would like?
A Christian is a person that seeks to eventually follow all the doctrines, the words and His Commandments of God. Jesus says,” If you love me keep my commandments”.
A Christian is a person of faith and love. The bible says, “Without faith it is impossible to please God”. My friends without charity we are nothing. When there is no charity our actions have no value. (Heb 11:6, 1Cor 13: 2, 3).
A Christian seeks to please God in God’s way not His own. God says, “My thought are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways”(Isa 55:8). But, God doesn’t leave you empty handed. He then says, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Php 2:5). In other words he says I want you to think like my Son. I want you to think like me. I want your thoughts to be elevated. One Christian writer puts it this way, “higher than the highest human thought can reach is God’s ideal for His people”(E.G.White). He wants to take our minds beyond human thought, beyond dark and low earthly thoughts to that which is high, holy and lifted up. He wants man to chase off the old man and put on the new.
This is just a few thoughts about what a Christian should be. Despite, the marred character of Christ that is being displayed in our world we must realize that there are absolutes. Why should anyone want to be a Christian? Isn’t it difficult? Sure, it is difficult to live the way that you are not used to living. But, if you compare what God offers and gives compare to that which the secular world offers to you there is no comparison when you look at the benefits.
Remember, you were created by God. He wants the best for you. He has provided us with an instruction manual how to live our lives. While we were yet sinners he died for us. I’ll break it down for you. While we were against him, when we were His enemies he died for us. So, my brother and sister we may slip and fall into sin, but you and I have hope. We have an advocate with the Father who is Jesus. He can and will forgive us of our sins. He pleads to the Father in our behalf.
So, my friend reach out your hand and let Jesus pick you up, brush you off and carry you throughout your life for the rest of your life.
Pray for that brother or sister that lacks the knowledge and the Spirit of God. Show them some love and display that faith that only Jesus displayed so well.
It’s all about that union that was broken between mankind and God. He wants you back. He wants you in him and he longs to be in you. Let’s not let sin separate us any longer.
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