If one were to wonder what a Christian is, and then attempt to search for a definition of one, they might run across something along the lines of this: “a person professing belief in Jesus as the Christ or in the religion based on the teachings of Jesus.”
This in itself isn't a bad description or definition of one. However, there's a little more to this than what any dictionary might define. A person who believes in Jesus Christ and his teachings is only part of it. If one truly is a follower of Christ, then they must partake in a "life of faith," as well .
There are a few key components of what we call the Christian life which one strives to live by. As was said above, the Christian life is a life of faith. Without faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior we are basically dead in the water. Let's discuss this life of faith for a moment.
Hebrews 11:1 is a good starting point. Faith in Christ is what we (Christians) live by. Admittedly, it's hard to believe in something that can't be confirmed by our natural senses. This is where many fall by the wayside. They can't accept something on "faith," but this is necessary and non-negotiable. A Christian must have faith (Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:7).
We also come by our faith by studying the God's Word, or the Bible (Romans 10:17). It's not enough to go to church, or watch religious programs on television. The Bible must be read and studied. God speaks to us through its pages. Our belief faith is reinforced by listening to what He has to say to us.
Should Christians be content to just sit on their faith? After his resurrection, and before He ascended into Heaven, Jesus basically outlined what He expected his apostles to do in His absence. Matthew 28:19-20, or what we know as the Great Commission, tells us what Christ said to them.
The sharing of our faith is what enables to win over the world (1 John 5:4-5). It is our faith in the risen Christ that gives us great spiritual strength and power (Luke 17:6). Thus, we are able to share our faith with others even at the risk of persecution or worse.
There are few more things to mention about the Christian life. For instance, besides being a life of faith, it is also a life of repentance, or turning away from sin. This a definite requirement of becoming a Christian (Acts 2:38; Acts 17:30). It is also a continual, or ongoing way of life (Acts 8:13-24; Revelation 2:5; 3:19).
A Christian life also encompasses the walk of Jesus Christ. This means that we must follow his example and live our lives abounding in good works (1 Corinthians 15:58), and recognizing opportunities to exemplify them (Titus 3:1; Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:10).
Our last feature of the Christian life for today is that it is a life unimpeded by fear and worry. A Christian learns early on to lean on Christ when confronted with unfavorable situations (Proverbs 3:25-26). God wouldn't have it any other way (Matthew 10:28-31; Hebrews 13:5, 6). We can be confident in our relationship with Him, and that He will always be there (Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 4:16; 1 John 4:17).
A true Christian puts his faith and trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:7). This includes His crucifixion as payment for our sins, and His resurrection on the third day. The Christian life is a "new" life. But, it is a work in progress. It is a life that is always growing, evolving and maturing in faith.
Scripture: Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:5-10; Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:1; Ephesians 5:5
Prayer: Holy Father, make me appreciative of all Your gifts, and, through Your wisdom and power, may I find the best use for them. Amen.
God bless you,
Bree
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