What Is a Christian?
The term “Christian” is often used loosely and with many definitions attached. Many will tell you of hurt and disappointment in so called “Christians” who have declared themselves “religious” yet their lives have demonstrated less than honesty and integrity. So what is a real Christian?
A Christian pursues a personal relationship with God.
Not satisfied with religious rules and do’s and don’ts, a Christian desires to have God involved in the daily workings of his life. They believe God desires a relationship with humanity and offers it through the acceptance and faith in the divine Christ Jesus.
A Christian is a work in progress.
God’s standard for a Christian is to live a life that is above criticism and marked by a kind and loving attitude in all things. Contrary to the thinking of some, this demonstration of love is not a “door mat” mentality or evidence of weakness. Rather it is the mark of a true follower of Jesus Christ. It is the ability to be firm yet gentle, strong yet kind.
A Christian has the power of God’s Spirit to empower His life.
When Jesus returned to Heaven after His resurrection, He sent His Spirit, the third entity of the Trinity, to empower all who believe in Jesus. This Holy Spirit gives the Christian the ability to be strong in the midst of trials, to offer forgiveness and to maintain calm in the midst of confusion. He works in the believer to develop the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, humility and self-control that is to characterize a true follower of Jesus Christ.
A Christian is not perfect.
Although the Christian has the Holy Spirit to act as the CEO of his life, directing his responses and decisions and choices, many Christians live far below this place of joy that God offers to His followers. The mark of a true Christian will be the desire to grow in allowing God to direct his life. His quick return to allowing God’s Spirit to restore forgiveness, kindness, peace and humility will be the tell tale evidence of a Christian. He will desire to have not only the output of his life showing evidence of the difference God makes, but will also seek God’s help in monitoring the input of his life as well.
A Christian cares enough to share.
A true follower of Jesus will want to share this life-giving privilege with others. Knowing the forgiveness and strength he receives will keep his heart humble and his attitude soft toward those who do not yet understand all God offers to those who will open their heart in faith to Him.