As a Presbyterian Christian, how do you define a Christian?

[GraceSeeker]

Though I'm posting this question in several threads scattered through CF, I'm not trolling or seeking to be contentious. I'm genuinely curious to find out how this question might be similarly or differently addressed by various groups within Christendom. And, please, though I know that whole books could be written in response, try to distill your own answer down to a single sentence, such as might be used when designing a poll.


A Christian is _____________________.

 

[kenrapoza]

A Christian is a repentant sinner who has acknowledged their guilt and just condemnation before God and trusts solely in Christ alone for salvation.

 

[hedrick]

I don't think Presbyterians have a special definition of Christian. Few of us would, for example, say that only Presbyterians are Christian. I'll go with the old-fashioned "accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior."

However the original question can be asked in different contexts. E.g. in some contexts I'd say a Christian necessarily believes in something like the Apostles' Creed, and maybe also the Trinity and the Incarnation, although you can argue where the line should be between non-Christian and heterodox Christian. (By some people's definition I'm on the wrong side of that line.)

Of course as confessional churches, Presbyterian Churches have more specific standards for ourselves.

 

[GraceSeeker]

I don't think Presbyterians have a special definition of Christian.

I understand. But I'm not looking so much for the denominational answer, as for you personal answer. I'm expecting that different faith communities may vary in the way they answer the question, even as all are probably trying to communicate the same basic idea.

I describe the impetus for my question here: post #8 in "As a Wesley, how would you define a Christian?"


Thanks for your feedback.