Call Me A Christian-Please!
64Feeling Foggy About Who You Are?
In the last several years I have noticed a trend for those who say Jesus is their Lord to call themselves by other names: believer, follower, disciple, friend, brother and various other descriptions. Certainly there is nothing wrong with those designations. We are all of those but only after we become a CHRISTIAN. I overheard a conversation where a friend was talking to a wonderful man who has accepted Christ as Savior and lives a righteous life within the dictates of that conversion. My friend stated that it was good to talk to a fellow Christian. This man went ballistic and vehemently told her not to call him that.
He says he does not want to be associated with that name because it has been so contaminated by the actions of people who call themselves such. That was an eye opener for me and now I look and listen. Almost every day a person disassociates himself from the name of Christ and proudly denies the name of Christian.
Sure, there are so called Christians who steal, commit adultery, greedily accumulate wealth from donations, and falsely purport to heal the sick, and all in the name of Christianity. When the unsaved and skeptical see this behavior it gives them fuel for the fire of attack. Satan gets excited because this is one more person who has chosen darkness and aligned with sin and the world instead of God’s kingdom of righteousness.
We are told this will happen and many are falling for it hook, line and sinker.
2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 says, “1And we ask you, brethren, in regard to the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, and of our gathering together unto him, 2that ye be not quickly shaken in mind, nor be troubled, neither through spirit, neither through word, neither through letters as through us, as that the day of Christ hath arrived; 3let not any one deceive you in any manner, because -- if the falling away may not come first, and the man of sin be revealed -- the son of the destruction, 4who is opposing and is raising himself up above all called God or worshipped, so that he in the sanctuary of God as God hath sat down, shewing himself off that he is God -- [the day doth not come]. Young’s Literal Translation
Certainly a Christian who strives to live a holy and clean life does not wish to be tainted with the same brush as one of these who have fallen away into their own chosen sin. And we are not. Rather, we are cleansed by grace and with the Name above all names. If challenged to explain the actions of these people who, while in the public eye, disgraced themselves, we simply should say we cannot answer for them.
I myself, do not attempt to say that they were not “really saved” or were “led astray” because I don’t know if they were or not. Only that person can know and account for himself. We have been led to think we are “our brother’s keeper” and “one for all and all for one” and never more strongly than in the body of Christ. But I am not responsible for what other Christians do or don’t do.
I realize that is a huge and shocking statement. Humans want someone to blame and will pile on the ones available if they cannot get a suitable answer from the one who disappointed and let them down. And never do they demand accountability more than when a professed Christian stumbles, falls or throws himself off the cliff of goodness.
However, when it comes to salvation, every person that ever lived must answer and choose for himself. It is called free will and God will never violate this because He gave it to us in the first place. So I do not pick up the cross and attempt to carry it for a sinful person. My own is heavy enough. Jesus said in Matthew 16“ 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
Nowhere does he say for ME to take up the cross of others and carry it for them. So rather than deny the Name of Christ, I choose to deny being accountable for the actions of others. I will not dishonor God by refusing to be aligned with Him. Just before Jesus went to punishment and death on the cross, one of the most beloved apostles denied Him. This entire story is in the book of Luke, Chapter 22, in the New Testament. I encourage you to read it carefully. Jesus had even told Peter that he would deny being a follower and believer and indeed being with Him. Of course Peter was adamant that he would never do such a thing. And he believed in his own statements. But he did deny Christ and was bitterly remorseful.
I imagine that moment when Jesus came out into the courtyard and looked at Peter. “60 Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” 62 And he went outside and wept bitterly.” Luke 22:60-62 (NIV). Jesus did not look with condemnation or anger. He simply looked at this man who loved and betrayed Him.
I believe Peter began the journey to denial and bitterness when he first separated himself from Jesus. Verse 54 states that Peter followed at a distance and did not remain by the side of his Teacher. Luke 22: “54 Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance.” One is harder put to remain strong and in good courage when apart from the truth. The seeds were planted before they ever reached the house of the high priest. And the harvest came just as it always does. What we plant is what is grown. I choose to plant the seed from the packet that proclaims Christian in big, bold letters.
It takes courage to be a Christian, then and now. All but one of the apostles died a horrible and pain filled death. Many people in our own time live in danger of being killed or persecuted if they admit to being a Christian. Peter was in the same predicament. He knew there was a good chance that Jesus would be crucified. The Romans had perfected this torturous death and most likely, one saw people hanging on crucifixion crosses daily. If he said he was with Jesus, he might end up there beside his Teacher. So Peter gave into fear and took the immediately easy way out. He disassociated himself with Christ. And his heart was broken. He was remorseful and repentant and he was redeemed. Peter is still thought of as a righteous and faithful man.
A denial of Christ and His mandates in our own day and age is of the same importance. And persecution of Christians in America is growing. A judge in California stated that traditional Christian religious beliefs that marriage should remain between one man and one woman is “harmful to gays and lesbians” who seek to marry their partners. If legislation passes, objection to gay marriage will be considered “hate” speech and therefore punishable by law.
It is quite conceivable that admitting to being a Christian will soon land a person in jail or in a lawsuit. We must build pride and courage now so it is instilled in our bone marrow and DNA. Fear is not an option Psalm 119: 45 says, “And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.” Though we die, we die giving honor to the Name above all Names. Everyone shall do this sooner or later.
Philippians 2 reminds us of this very clearly. 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” I find it an honor to do so now.
Should the time come that my blood is spilled, I pray a bystander will say, “That is the blood of a Christian.” And should I die peacefully in bed as an ancient old lady, as you pour my ashes over the waterfall, proclaim loudly, “She was a Christian!”
Call Me A Christian-Please!
Category: Literature
MCN: CCAH5-XYX56-3NJTE
© copyright Sun Jul 10 18:49:15 UTC 2011 - All Rights Reserved
PLEASE READ THIS COPYRIGHT NOTICE
All photographs and text on this site are protected under United States and international copyright laws (© Brenda Barnes) with all rights reserved (due credit is given to any legally used photos from other sources). Any form of unauthorized reproduction, including downloading, saving, printing or manipulating these images in any manner is a direct violation of these copyright laws.
vote upvote downshareprintflag
- Useful (5)
- Funny
- Awesome (11)
- Beautiful (8)
- Interesting
CommentsLoading...
Hello Ms Dee. This has been on my heart for a while now. Today was the day to write it and share it. I think much of our stress is created because we try to carry the weight of the world. Jesus already did that. Thank you for stopping by. Joy in Jesus, HB.
I don't mind calling myself a Christian. That's just what I believe.
I'm so far from perfect. I'm no kind of example, though I try. I have too many flaws to be the ideal Christian example to other people. I love Christ's words in the Bible. I love His stories, I love His attitude towards people, how loving, how much ruth He shows to us; I love His healing, I love the fact He got onto boats and travelled to go heal people.
I try hard to treat people the I believe Christ would treat them: I try very hard to be kind, to be healing towards people, to have kindness and ruth in my heart.
I don't mind calling myself a Christian and I hope that people will not see the flaws in me and associate them with Christians in general. I never thought of this before reading your hub.
Hi Paradise7. I think most people focus on the failings of people who are high profile like TV preachers who are caught in extramarital affairs, thefts, etc. Then they use them to be vindictive toward all Christians. That is why some have withdrawn from using the designation. I feel it is dangerous and I love being a Christian. Keep being you and doing what you are and you will bring glory to the Name.
Thanks for dropping by. HB
Say it again, Hyphenbird. Let's not allow those who abandon following the Lord, but still want to carry is name to rob us of our terms. The folks in Antioch were first called "Christians" because gentiles and Jews worshiped and fellowshiped together. The world stood up and took notice. As for "In Christ Alone", I've requested it be sung at my funeral... in about 30 years. (I just turned 70) I try to sing it to myself every morning.
Hello Hyphenbird. What a beautiful tribute to both your faith and your love. Let us hope for the ‘ancient old lady’ scenario and you are greeted at the foot of the waterfall by a group of the most talented writers that ever graced the planet, with the greeting, “once you’ve checked in, fly on over, we need some help with a story we are working on”.
Hi liftandsoar. I refuse to be lukewarm. Though I might be exhausted and frightened, I go willingly with my Lord. With my hand in His, the fear will fade and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt where my spirit resides. Refusing to be called Christian is a first step in a long, long fall. I pray this article gives a wake up call to this trend. thanks for stopping by. In Christ Alone, you chose well my friend.
Hi there mckbirdbks. What a lovely scene you painted for me. I am many things but a lukewarm person, never. My passion for Christ is of utmost importance to me.
Surely God will need something written in the centuries to come! Thanks for the visit. Hyph
Here's a news flash. Christians are at their best what most aware of their sins. Did not Paul call himself the "chief of sinners"? Every other religion gives a code to follow. If you follow it, you live; if not, you die. The Christian faith alone offers us a person who followed the code perfectly and then took the penalty for our failure to follow it on himself. So the faithful Christian is one who brings his sins to the cross and gratefully receives forgiveness. The outcome is that the power of the cross motivates us to be more like Christ. It's all about honesty and faithfulness before the Lord, not peformance for human approval.
Beautifully said. I am a Christian.
liftandsoar, I am a bit confused by your "news flash." Can you explain why you posted it here. Do you feel my Hub is not about honestly and faithfulness but human performance? HB
Hi Becky. I am very happy for you. Nothing in life is better than knowing Jesus as Lord. I appreciate your visit.
I am a Christian also. God saved me from myself. Peace to you.
~julsey
Hello julsey. Congratulations on choosing Jesus. Isn't He awesome?! I hope this Hub helps many Christians remember what we have. Joy in Jesus to you. HB
Not at all Hyphenbird. I was responding the Paradise7, and admit "News Flash" seems a little brusk. Please forgive. I'm concerned that we Christians may have adopted yet another set of rules to follow, when the Lord has called us to live humbly as sinners that we are resting only on the Savior.
Nothing to forgive liftandsoar. I was just confused. Thanks for the explanation. And I agree with you. That might be another Hub. Hmmmmm
A nice reminder to everyone, Christian and otherwise about simply being human and being humble.
Dear Hyph,
A beautiful hub for sure..I also am a believer in Christ and a Christian..The world now has taken the term and twisted it, pulled it apart, and at times threw confusion in there as far as the term "Christian" goes causing division even among the believers..I questioned this recently after reading something that tore the name apart using history and scripture..anything can be twisted and dismantled..I realized what was happening.I had a good friend that came back with just as much vigor and knowledge to disprove what they were saying..anyway..lovely post and great reminder..
Sunnie
Hi dramatis. Thanks for dropping in, I appreciate it. We must always remember it is not about us. Have a great day. HB
Hi there Sunnie. Yes, I know the word Christian creates a bad taste to many. I also know Satan the devil is behind this trend. All the stuff with removing Christ and His name cannot be allowed by us. The "X" factor, like Xmas, must be confronted and put in its place.
Thanks as always for reading and your lovely comments, Hyph
Hyphen, Great Hub! I don't know you personally, but from what I read, I'll call you.. A Christian! I too am a Christian, and agree that we must be prepared to suffer persecution for the cause of Christ. God Bless.
Dear friend and fellow Christan you have written another beautiful and thought provoking hub. It is always sad when Christians fall short but we do and those who see us and doubt even more, are influenced, I'm sure, but equally so, when we live correctly they are made aware that there is something different about us, something they wish they felt or had. It is always our job to make people hungry and thirsty for our beloved Jesus but because God is merciful I believe He knows when we try and even if we get someone's attention in the negative, they have at least thought about Christ. The next example they see may give them something else to consider. Some seed, some water but we all serve a purpose.
I believe most people who accept Christianity really are believers. However, Christianity and the bible is constantly used to support some shady activities. This does not in any way mean all people do this, it is a few who create this problem.
God bless you and continue to produce great hubs.
Hyphenbird,
Awesome hub. Absolutely awesome. You told it like it is.
As you are aware, I am a member of Alcoholics Anonymous. And one of the things that I do not like about that organization is there are a lot people in it who do not want to hear the words Christian or God.
In that organization, it is just fine for people to describe themselves as Jews, Hindus, Budhists, agnostics and atheists, but when it comes to Christian, forget about it. That description is taboo.
However, you know me. I am ornery and rebellious. Thus, I do not pay that stuff any attention. I call myself Christian as often as I please, which is all the time. And everyone in my chapter has learned that I am not one to be challenged when it comes to my describing myself as a Christian.
Also, most of the people in A.A. do NOT call God God. They call Him "my higher power".
Well, I have never used that term in an A.A. meeting. I always say God, boldly -- and chuckle to myself when I see all of the frowns that puts on people's faces.
Thank you very much for publishing this post.
I have to say that persecution will arise...keep looking to the sky. (Blessed Jesus Hold My Hand!) Yes, I am a Christian and I am NOT going to let persecution stop me from professing Jesus as my Lord and savior. I'm thankful for Him in my life everyday. You want to read some young man's comment about so called "other religions" read "I Home Schooled my Children". Blah, blah, blah...I don't listen to their nonsense.
biblicaliving, thanks for reading and for seeing me for what I claim to be-a Christian. I think persecution is already here and rampant. The fact that people are removing the term from their lives speaks volumes to me. Revelation is here and we are living it. thanks for your visit. Hyph
Poohgranma, how are you tonight dear one? Yes, we all serve a purpose and God has great plans for everyone's life. I sure pray I am fulfilling mine in such a way that He has glory. I have so much peace and happiness in my life. I wish that for every single person on this planet. Only through Christ will we find it. Many blessing to you wonderful lady. Hyph
platinumowl4, thatis a wise statement. Many indeed use Christianity for their own agenda. Thank you for your blessings and I return them to you. Living in the blessing of God is the best thing I have ever known.
feenix, you are right to say the name of God proudly and accurately. The persecution has begun when people can state their gods but a Christian cannot. I hope eyes open to that. It is important to know and live in that. Keep doing it my friend!
Hello SusieQ42, sadly though their "nonsense" is becoming a way of life here in America. Even without persecution (which is rampant) many deny Christ and choose to use nonthreatening terms. I choose to live and die as a CHRISTIAN.
What? The man accepts Christ but doesn't wanna be called Christian! I wrote that after the first paragraph and knew exactly what the second one was gonna be and yep..i was right. Doesn't want to be called such because of all the Hypo-Christians and there he is being one himself. Accountability, name-calling, I'm going to hold my peace except to say Hyph, you are the true & wise one and you should know how very much your respected..and loved by all that know the real dealio...thats you dear woman.
Alastar, people really don't realize what they are doing. They have allowed themselves to be deceived. It is rampant in the Christian community. By trying to disassociate from those who tarnish the designation, they are separating themselves from Christ.
I certainly hope that viewers see me as authentic and stable in my faith and love for Christ. I appreciate your validation Alastar.
Hyphen, I see you as authentic and stable in your faith. I am a born again believer in God and His Son Jesus Christ. I can align myself with the word Christian or believer, to me they are one and the same. I can't imagine anyone feeling bad by being called a Christian. There are hypocrites among both. I will say that i prefer an open place to worship. There's a little town close to me that has an open space with walls, no top, people meet there to worship, there is not always a minister present, people from all walks of life can go there, no fancy clothing needed, just the need to worship where there is no judgement rendered. Just think how much good could be done if the money spent on multi dollar churches could be used for the needy. Thank you my friend. I hope you understand my point of view.
Cheers
I, too, am a Christian, depending upon Christ for my relationship with God as my Father. I pray for his grace to get me through the persecution when it comes to me, as I expect it will. Thank you for affirming your faith. It's almost harvest time, and there's still much to do before the harvest is over. We need to be out in those fields reaping while there is still time.
Hi Hyphenbird, how do you know when you've fallen into the Lion's Den? I tend to learn to late. After the lion has had a bite. I trust, and am betrayed. So how do you know from the start, when is the first red flag of the lion's sharp teeth?
always exploring, I do understand. Much emphasis is pt on fancy buildings, expected way of dress and all that minutia. I am seeing more churches relax as the leaders learn from Holy Spirit. If I walked into a church and was heard that a woman had to be in a dress, or that sort of thing, I would leave. That is removing focus from God and placing it on man's prohibitions.
The gathering of worshipers you describe sounds wonderful. I love the idea of openness and acceptance. That is the way it should be. People in jeans and tee shirts, business suits, dresses, long or short hair, all that is outside. Love comes from within.
Thanks so much for coming by. You are always welcome and I love you. Hyph
WannaB Writer, yes the harvest is very near. I think many will be surprised to find it upon them. I am so thrilled for you, and for Jesus, that you have received Him. Every person saved is a victory and for His glory. It is incredible to be so different and to know we are in the circle of love and grace. Have a great day. HB
Katharella, don't wait to see teeth. Run at the first growl. If the person or place you are attending don't put Jesus first, they are not genuine Christians. Nothing, and I mean nothing, come before Jesus. He is the foundation and the reason for it all. Only through His name can we get to God. Look for that in the places you go to worship.
Is His name mentioned, are people calling themselves Christians, are they living like He instructed us in love and good works?
If it looks like a lion, smells like a lion, growls like a lion, it is a lion and he wants you for dinner. My best advice is that you know the Word of God for yourself. Read the Bible, study the Bible. There are many free Bible studies online if you need them. I will gladly recommend some that helped me. Have a wonderful day. Hyph
I have read and studied it my whole life. And I think I just wanted some reinforcement from someone else who knows, but the thing is, I did run (thus you haven't seen my post in threads as of late) I ran fast and even told the lions to unfollow me but as it is, the lion will not go away! They're not believers nor mention the word of God, and the only one who did (besides yourself) seems to have not noticed the antics of the other lions. But they have bitten and left a scar, then laugh about it. Maybe I shall make a hub of the Laughing Lion who had me backed in the corner blocking my way out.. um, thank you, you've already inspired what happened when one is trapped in the Lion's Den. I remember the story well. Thank you. :)
I should have been more clear in my statement. Run to the arms of God. He will never allow anything to harm you when you stand on His word and in His arms. We are not responsible to defend or even answer those who verbally attack us. When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the furnace, they were not injured and their clothing did not even smell like smoke. God will do the same for you, and for me.
Prayer changes things, it sure protected Daniel in that lion's den. Let me know how things are for you dear one.
Call on the Father and on the name of Jesus and you will be spared.
Doesn't the word 'Christian' mean Christ-like? And isn't that the aim of every believer, follower, friend, brother, sister, disciple, apostle -- to become more like Christ each day? In any case, great hub, well written and enlightening. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Hello C-Bless. One certainly should be all of those and have aspirations to fulfill them. It is a tactic of Satan the devil to cause blindness, chaos and confusion. I hope this Hub helps to open eyes and strengthen hearts to honor of being called Christian. Thank you C-Bless for your visit and encouraging words.
You are truly an Angel! Along with helping me with your guidance, you gave me something. You gave me a fond memory of my dad, he loved telling me about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego when kids bullied me in school. When I was in grade school, before they put me in private Christian school he would tell me their story, and when I read their names, I pictured him in my mind, youthful as when I was that scared little girl!! And he said the same thing and reminded me not to forget it, but apparently I did. :) Strange when you grow up you think other grown ups would know better, then they don't. But maybe worth it for the memory of my dad! Thank you!
Thank you darling. That made me smile and an image of a loved one is always a treat. Bless you.
"And God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, that those who believeth in Him should not perish but have ever lasting life."
This is one of my favorite scriptures. I was just reading it today, then found your hub tonight. Thank you.
Hello vocalcoach. That is one of my favorites also. IT reminds me that I am never alone and am forever loved. My Father loved me that much. Wow.
You are welcome. I hope this gave you some insight and a refreshed love of being called a Christian. It did for me. Have a great day. Hyph
A great hub Hyphenbird and thank you for sharing. I vote up all the way.
Take care
Eiddwen.
It is so sad that Christianity has become a bad word today, and many do not want to be associated with the name. I am not ashame of my Christ and what that makes me... a Christian. No matter how politically correct Christians want to get (follower, believer, etc.) it does not change the fact that we are still Christians.
Hello Eiddwen. Thanks for the visit and the cotes. I am glad you came by. HB
Hello Faithful Daughter. I agree. It is very sad and must cause Jesus much sorrow. The word Christian is an important designation and I will not compromise. Jesus never did when He suffered and died for us.
Thank you for stopping by friend.
Hi Hyphenbird. What an inspiring and truthful message. I see this happening in the world all around. It's a sad state that a Christian would fear being "labeled" a Christian.
The Christian name has been smeared and all I can think of is the accountability. The Bible states when your brother sins to go to him. If he doesn't listen, bring in another.
As when one person suffers, we all suffer. As a Christian we should not fear. It is important to remember others are watching us. We will be held accountable, this is true.
Bless you my friend.
Good morning FaithDream. Luke 12 says. "48 But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." So we must be very, very careful. God required so much more because we bear His name. The whole issue makes my heart hurt.
Have a wonderful day and thanks so much for dropping by. Hyph
Hello Hyphenbird, I understand your point exactly. Just because the tares are calling themselves wheat does not mean that the wheat then denies what it is. To be Christian is to follow Christ, Messiah and by giving that over to tares or wolves in sheep's clothing is being foolish and adding to the stain that they attempt to place on the pure name of Jesus Christ.
Exactly North Wind. One cannot change one's mind and say, "Well, I am this but claim half that also." To do so dishonors the Name and Person of Christ. How comforting it is to know that He will one day show Himself to everyone and how sad to know He will tell some that "I never knew you."
Thank you for stopping by to read and leave your wise comments.
Thank you for publishing this beautifully written article. I am proud to call myself a Christian. People who are ashamed of the name are simply victims of public education in our country, which is based on anti-Christian secular humanism and based around teaching false histoty to children. The day is coming when Christians will be persecuted in America.
You pegged it James, Amen!
Hi James. I think the persecution is already here in America. Any other religion is protected but a person who speaks the truth of God's Word is called a bigot and a hater. Followers of other religions are protected but a Christian is automatically suspect.
I agree the public school system is biased and teaches false to God's truth. However parents must step up and let teach their children correctly. Some have no option but to send their children to public school. We do have the option to use evolution as an opportunity to show our young ones how wrong it is.
I also am proud to be a Christian and proclaim it proudly. I am not the woman I used to be, through Christ alone I am cleansed and redeemed. Thanks for dropping by and leaving your great comments.
This Hub expresses the feelings of many Christians today, thank you. I was reminded of Isaac Watts' hymn:
I’m not ashamed to own my Lord,
Or to defend His cause;
Maintain the honor of His Word,
The glory of His cross.
Hello searchinsany. Amen to the hymn. One day every living person will feel that way. Oh glorious day indeed! Thanks for stopping by. Joy in Jesus, HB.
Thank God for someone who doesn't shy away or back down because contemporary society isn't a fan of who you are. I pray that others will identify me as a Christian just like the apostles and the infant church at Antioch. I pray that because of my words, actions and attitudes those I come into contact with will proclaim this verse in Acts about me: "Ac 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." Praise God for being associated with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Hello GrowingDeeper. We must refuse to be lukewarm but bold and proud to be called by the Name above all names. It only gets better doesn't it? Thanks for coming by and letting the world know who you are-a child of the King. Joy in Jesus forever, Hyphenbird.
Hyphenbird, a fine message you have put forth. Seeking the Kingdom of God 1st everyday as everyday is a new day, I strive to center myself around thoughts and actions, and I know I fail miserably at times and have to go into prayer for more than thankfulness I find that repenting comes as one of my needs more often than I'd like to admit, yet so much less often than in earlier years of my life. I am insulated from the world in so many real ways that I find fellowship here on the waves that fly into space and bounce back to the earth in a magical way only God himself could have provided the needed parts, pieces and ability to knowledge for any of this to take place. Like anything of mankind both good and evil can spring forth at our finger tips. My heart hurts for the word "Christian" and how evil has grown throughout the letters that spell it. I am a Christian, I hope I need not stand on a corner and hold up a sign or scream out that statement, at some time I hope that I am accused of it, tried and convicted by a jury of my peers, beyond any shadow of doubt and receive a life sentence. I did not coin that thought as I've heard the question, "if you were accused of being a Christian," "would there be enough evidence to convict you?"
I do denounce "churchianity" and I pass no specific judgement against any particular church, as I find Christians in most I have tried to attend for fellowship. Being an eternal student of the teachings Christ gave, some being suggestions more than a direct lesson, such as his words "some one, any one, without sin, please pick up a rock and throw it" right there at that moment, he himself could have picked up a stone and thrown it, and according to law and the outline he gave, he would have been just in doing so, yet he continued to write in the dirt/sand and wait, already aware that none would be thrown. There are no details in what he was writing on the ground, perhaps a few words to his Father to allow this lesson of the mob to heed what I'm sure was a short self inspection to reach the conclusion under the guide line uttered, they were not able to throw a stone. I'm sorry I'm getting long winded over a scripture that is well known and widely understood, but I see peoples actions and recognize those actions [including my own at times] and wonder are these words truly,fully understood? If so, I find that many Christians ignore them completely, and too often making me uncomfortable to the point of not being able to set in a pew at their side for a long time. It seems if they get comfortable with my presence it is not long before in casual conversation they begin openly letting me know who in the church is not a person worthy to fellowship with. That draws the line in the sand for me to begin praying for them and for me to be separated from judgement of throwing the verbal stones that have ran me out of churchianity. Ms Ruby's description of her place of worship sounds like a place I'd would like to visit. I understand those who want to be known as "followers of Christ" instead of Christian, in the end I want Jesus Christ himself to recognize me as the sheep are separated from the goats, regardless of what the world calls me.
I feel from your writing here that you are one of Christ, and I thank you for the lesson that causes me to rethink myself, that I might hold my position regardless of the worlds persecution of the word, Christian.
Peace, Blessings and Love, dusty
Hi Dusty. You can come to my Hubs and give that testimony any day and any time, the longer the better. Hallelujah! You know I am in agreement with you so much.The word you used "churchianity" is so perfect. And so many use the name of God and Jesus for their own perverted purposes. It will come to haunt them and I am glad it is not mine to own.
Dusry, I really work consciously not to speak badly or uselessly. I write Ephesians 4:29 on my wrist in the morning so I am reminded to use my tongue for good and worthwhile speech only. And I humbly thank you for recognizing me as a follower of Jesus and a CHRISTIAN. Truly I could not think of a better name to be called. And I am so happy that you were blessed by my article and testimony. Blessing upon you and joy in Jesus. Hyph
Hyph, fantastic! I was not familiar with that verse, and what a great idea, bridling my tongue is often my biggest down fall, and I try to stay out of getting snared by others into speeking things about another that I wouldn't be comfortable telling them personally what I said, God Bless, dust
Great article. Hubpages is a great forum for you to take a stand for your beliefs. And yes...do not be ashamed to call yourself Christian. Keep up the great work.
Dusty, it helps me a lot. I remember that the Bible says the tiny tongue can is powerful like the steering of a big ship. That stays with me forever. Thank you for being who you are. Hyph
Hi there SummerSurf. I love that HP provides the opportunity for a writer to explore all areas and genres including faith. Thank you for your encouragement. Hyphenbird
Amen and Amen! I have noticed that the term "born again" along with the term "Christian" is offensive too. I have heard people say, "Well, I am a Chrisitan, but I am not one of those "born-agains." If you are a true Chrisitan, you have been born again. Of course the term Chrisitan is enough, we don't have to say born again, but to deny that you are a "born again" Chrisitan if someone asks says a lot. You were right on when you said "But I am not responsible for what other Christians do or don’t do."
Whether we call ourselves believers, man/woman of faith, Christian, born-again Christian, born-again believer, disciples of Jesus, eventually, all of these terms will be an offense. We must be who we are in Christ and not be afraid to say what we are and what and who we believe in.
When people say they don't want to be a Christian, or they don't want to be a part of a church because of the bad things they have seen Christians do, but what I tell them is that Christianity is not about people, it's about a relationship with Christ.
Your hub was awesome hypen. Thanks so much.
lambservant, thank you. This is a subject heavy on my heart. There is nothing wrong with all the other names we call ourselves, follower-believer, etc. but the name of Christian must be proudly proclaimed. I have heard the term "born-again" also spoken of negatively. In the coming time of persecution all of these designations will be punishable. I agree totally with you, this is about a personal relationship with Christ, not a church building or people. I love the association I receive from my church family but they are not necessary to my worship and devotion, just a lovely addition.
Thanks so much for you loving comments. Hallelujah to the Name above all Names.
Awesome read precious sister. This is no time to be shy for Christ Jesus. The world is falling apart and I am so very grateful to know that His Children are covered by His Blood shed on the Cross for ALL. It is clear the Holy Spirit lives in and on you and works through you to shed the truth and light of Christ. Beautiful read sister.
Gods love is so unmeasurable Peter went on to be a very spoken apostle for Christ and died a martyr. Just to think Jesus is going to return sooner then later. Come Jesus come. We will see Peter one day and John and Paul and Matthew and James and on and on...... God can turn all things for the Good for those that believe. Amen sister. Love you In Christ. Your sis.
I am one grateful Christian, believer, follower, disciple and a work in progress saved and Born Again through the Blood of Jesus Christ. I am made righteious through the Blood of the Lamb. Sing it girl. I shout it girl. Phil 4:13 I pray to continue to shout it In His Name Jesus Christ.
Thank you skye2day. I also, am am grateful to be in the Kingdom of God and to know Jesus as my Savior. I am so proud to be associated with Him. I appreciate you coming by all of my Hubs. Joy to you, Hyph.
Some good and wholesome thoughts; challenging, too.
(Voted up)
Hello f. It is indeed challenging to remain strong, faithful and chaste in today's world. But the reward is incredible.
Ms Dee Level 5 Commenter 10 months ago
Well said! Great reminder that we are each responsible for our own cross. Only when we take care of our own log in our eyes that affects our judgment can we make a loving suggestion to another about the speck in his or her eyes. Thanks for posting this! God bless.