Christians

What does it mean to be a Christian?  Is it “going to church” a few times a year?  Or does being a Christian relate to the religion of our parents?  Maybe one was christened as a child and went through some type of “confirmation” process when he or she turned 12 or some other age.  What does it mean to be a Christian?

The bible, in the book of Acts, notes that disciples of Christ, believers, were first called Christians at Antioch.  This is seemingly a passing reference and is not repeated later on.  So, why are most people who believe in the Jesus of the Bible called Christians?  Perhaps it was because that name “stuck” among the pagans and Roman authorities.  For them, it may have been an easy way to clearly indicate who they were talking about when they were ridiculing or persecuting those who had committed their lives to Christ.

But, what does it mean to be a Christian?  The answer lies in more than what we say we believe in.  It is more than a few “religious” habits or behaviors such as making regular contributions each week or praying whenever we have a problem or want someone to get well.

Being a Christian means LIVING for Christ each and every day.   Being a Christian means that, following the immersion of our baptism, we become immersed in Christian Living.  It means demonstrating the Fruits of the Spirit as we go about our daily activities.  And it means following the example of Jesus Christ as we interact with family, friends, co-workers, everyone.

Being a Christian is not a part-time effort.  It is not paying lip service to what we think it means to be a Christian.  Neither is it going through the motions.  It is not just learning what the bible says.  Being a Christian means LIVING what the bible says!

Are we living the Christian life, or are we going through life wearing the name but not being obedient to the biblical message? Pray.

Don