“I’m a Christian.”
Those words used to mean something. They used to hold some respect and admiration and even some esteem with them. Not the prideful kind, but from others. My how times have changed!
The first recorded use of that term was in Acts 11:26 where it says, “They were first called Christians at Antioch.” It was a term of recognition, of distinction. Those who were called “Christians” were recognized as being different. Not weird different, but different from those around them. They stood out because they were filled with joy and shared an honest message of the love of Jesus.
Today it is different. The word “Christian” has come to be a generic term. “I’m a Christian because I grew up in church.” We hear talk about “Christian” America. I read a story recently of a porn star who posted about her re-baptism as a way to restate her commitment to Christ but sees absolutely nothing wrong with taking part in various forms of pornography. Seems like a disconnect there. (I do pray she sees the inconsistency of that outlook and follows other porn stars who made the break). Anyone today who is not Jewish, Muslim, or ________ is a “Christian.”
I”m not trying to be a crotchety old man, but I disagree. Being a “Christian” is far more than a cultural thing, a familial thing, or even a religious thing. Being a “Christian” is supposed to be a “following” thing. A commitment thing. That’s why today, as I have for the past 15-20 years, I no longer use the word “Christian” to describe someone choosing to follow Jesus. It’s use it too vague.
But being a follower, a disciple of Jesus? That’s a whole ‘nother ballgame. I want to be known as a Christ-follower.
I, too, prefer your definition, Bill, as it more clearly states who we are and whose we are. Praying that our lives reflect the light of Jesus in all things. Blessings!
(Oh, and congrats to Indiana for the big win last night!)
Thanks Martha. My sentiments exactly. About that ballgame? I was so excited I went to bed at 9:00. I found out this morning they won. As you can see it mattered to me. 🙂
Totally agree Bill, the generic use of the name christian does not represent the true meaning of being a Christ follower. The Bible tells us to set ourself apart from the world, do not be conform to this world. To often we allow the world to define terms, then follow those terms and attitudes. When you are a Christ follower, behavior, attitude, actions, speech, all of these things should set a clear definition, and set you apart. When you start bending the word of Christ, and trying to please and ever changing culture, you have conformed to the world, and left your first love. God never promised an easy life for Christ followers, our best life begins when we go to our real home in heaven.
I like all of what you said Gail but especially liked this: “To often we allow the world to define terms, then follow those terms and attitudes. When you are a Christ follower, behavior, attitude, actions, speech, all of these things should set a clear definition, and set you apart.” Thanks for a great comment and I, of course, agree. 🙂
I had this exact same conversation with Dominick last week. The response was nearly identical. I see someone being a Christian as literally step 1 of a lifelong journey. Whether or not the individual truly desires to follow Christ, that is the question. I think God gives us grace through His son, but that grace doesn’t guarantee a life without consequences.
I totally agree with you Ryan. Sadly, we are falling for the “grace mandate” is what I will call it. “I can do whatever I want and grace will cover it.” While that might be true, it is also a fallacy to think it gives us a green light to do whatever we want to do. Thanks for adding to the conversation.