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Living Faith

True Christians
Posted On: 3/10/2008  Posted By: DSimler-Goff
by: Debbie  Simler-Goff

 

“The last Christian died on the cross.” This statement was made over 100 years ago by German scholar and philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. Sadly, I wonder if Nietzsche’s words strike a chord with society today. What does being a Christian mean? For example, what’s the difference between a Christian mother and a non-Christian mother? How does a Christian employer conduct business compared to their unbelieving counterpart? Can the average un-churched person see a clear distinction between those who represent Jesus Christ and those who don’t?

They should.

Jesus said in John 13:35 “Your strong love for each other will prove to the world that you are my disciples." (The Living Bible) another translation of the same verse says, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (King James Version) In other words, a true Christian oozes with love and compassion for their fellow man. I Corinthians 13 from the Holy Bible tells us God’s definition of love:

  • Is longsuffering
  • Is kind
  • Is not jealous
  • Is not boastful
  • Is not arrogant
  • Is not rude
  • Is not selfish
  • Is not resentful
  • Does not think evil
  • Rejoices in the truth
  • Bears all things
  • Hopes all things
  • Endures all things

What about you? Do the people in your life view you as kind and considerate? Have you ever encountered a Christian who was rude or selfish? What do you think Friedrich Nietzsche would say about Christ’s followers today? Let’s explore this concept together. Your opinion matters. Write me today!


 

Comments/Replies: - [SUBMIT]

1: Your blog reminded me of the quote, "If you were put on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?" I sure hope so. Unfortunately, I think many people compartmentalize their lives. What they profess on Sunday does not necessarily bleed over into their actions on Monday through Saturday. True Christianity must be a 24/7 thing, or else it isn't "true Christianity."
Posted on: 3/11/2008 9:55:16 PM    Posted by: LWebb


 

2: I would like to disagree with Nietzsche’s statement. I would agree with this statement more, the last perfect man died on the cross, and because of that man there are Christians today. A Christian is one who believes in the religion of Christ and whose behavior exemplifies His teachings. The bible says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. I can only strive to be like Christ, but perfection is not an achievable goal while on this earth. I try to let the fruit of the Spirit shine from within me, but there are times when my flesh does get the better of me. Let’s just say I am glad Friedrich Nietzsche is not God, because there would be no hope for me. But with God as my Savior I can press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus.
Posted on: 3/12/2008 7:53:18 AM    Posted by: msteel


 

3: I do believe that people can see a difference. They may not immediately know what that difference is but as they see them day to day they will soon come to know that the Christian uses a different vocabulary than most run of the mill people today; that their dress is more modest, that the places they go are different, that they have no habits that are harmful to the body-the temple of Christ, that their attitude and reaction to various situations is certainly different. If we have the fruit of the spirit it does manifest itself outwardly.
Posted on: 3/12/2008 9:20:25 AM    Posted by: DCrain