What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?

I think that when we consider that question, we tend to go to what we do instead of who we are. What do I mean by this? Well, our worldly standard is based on how well we perform in given circumstances. When it comes to faith, that would then indicate we are banking on our works and not our faith. If you take your car into the shop and ask if the mechanic is good, he will most likely not point you towards his certificates on the wall but rather point to his success in fixing cars. For a Christian to focus on what they do instead of who they are, is like the mechanic pointing to the wall. I know some mechanic that didn’t do all that well in school but can take a car apart and put it back together like it is child’s play. What we do is a response to what God has already done for us and in us. Someone can be loving, forgiving, kind, and caring and still not believe in Jesus Christ. I guess that gives away what a Christian is... one who believes and models their life after Him. A Christian is defined by their faith in Christ. If I love God, I will be loving, forgiving, kind, and caring. A Christian is not someone who is perfect but rather is a forgiven sinner that has submitted to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. We carry in our bodies the death of Jesus Christ, therefore living our life fully in and through Him, who is Lord of all things. A true Christian may plan for, but is not concerned about, what the future holds because we know that it is God who holds the future. In God’s eyes a Christian is holy, clothed in the righteousness of Christ. We have died to our own sinful self so as to rise to the newness of life through the saving work of our Savior, Jesus. We understand Paul’s words that, “to live is Christ... to die is gain”. Each moment we have been given here is an opportunity to serve God, and when our last day on earth is over, we begin that eternity in heaven. So, I am a Christian because I have submitted myself to Christ, am born again, and live under the headship of Christ, and not under the law that convicts humanity. As the Apostle Paul says, “I am saved by grace through faith in Christ, not by works lest any man boasts”. If I am saved, then James’ words help, “Faith without works is dead!” Lord, help me first and foremost to have my hope in You, and You alone. Then lead me to faithful works in Your name. Amen