What is a Christian?

[SANTOSO]

Dear one,
I heard you said :
“However, based on 1 John 2:3-6, how do we know if we are living like Jesus did? Secondly, based on 1 John 3:7-10, does this mean that once becoming a Christian and you love your brother and sister (who is my brother and sister?), that that person will sin no more?”

Let us consider what was said in 1 John 2:3-6; how we are living like Jesus did ?

And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. -1 John 2:3

What is his commandment ?
And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. -1 John 3:23

Likewise, this is also what we have heard:
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, -Matthew 6:14

Aren’t they many trespass or offend or wrong us ? Our parents, our brothers and sisters, our wife or husband, our friends and acquaintances or employers or employees or co workers ?

When we forgive them! Have we not met the condition to be forgiven by our Heavenly Father ? Yes, we have.

How do we find the strength to forgive them ?
Isn’t it from our time dwelling in His words of love ? Haven’t we heard this :
May the LORD give strength to His people! May the LORD bless His people with peace! -Psalms 29:11

Aren’t we God’s people ? Don’t we need the Lord’s strength to forgive? Don’t we need the Lord’s peace ? Yes, we are !

That is why the Lord commands us first to love Him first with all our hearts, souls, and strength so that we have the strength to love our neighbors.

When we have released forgiveness to others! Have we not kept His commandment ? Yes, we have.
Have we know the Lord ? We have known that He forgives our sins.

Isn’t His truth in us ? For we dwell in His words of truth and believe that God gives strength to His people. We pray and believe that we receive His strength to release forgiveness to those who have hurt us.

Have we not kept His love ? We have loved God by spending time with His words of love.
and we have loved others by releasing forgiveness to them and prayed that they may come to repentance.

Didn’t we hear that the Lord does this :
Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. -Hebrews 7:25

Doesn’t the Lord intercede offenders ? Didn’t we pray that those who offend us to come to repentance? Aren’t we living the way Jesus did ?

Discussing 1 John 3:7-10;
How do we know we practice righteousness?
This is what we have heard:
By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.-Roman 8: 3-4

So when we walk according to the Spirit of God, we practiced righteousness.

How ? For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. -Romans 8:5

Who consider us righteous?
10 However, if the Messiah is in you, then, on the one hand, the body is dead because of sin; but, on the other hand, the Spirit is giving life because God considers you righteous. 11 And if the Spirit of the One who raised Yeshua from the dead is living in you, then the One who raised the Messiah Yeshua from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit living in you.- Roman 8: 10-11 CJB

Yes, the Spirit of God gives us life because God the Father considers us righteous because we are in union with Christ Jesus.


Yes, we are told to love our brothers and sisters ( who are our brothers and sisters? ).
Don’t our Lord told us about the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37.

This is what we have heard: Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?" -Luke 10:36
He said, "The one who showed him MERCY." And Jesus said to him, "You go, and do likewise." -Luke 10:37

So how we love our neighbors or our brothers and sisters is that we show mercy ; for the lord have said : go and do likewise.

Yes, show compassion to those who have suffered, hurt, oppressed, stripped, deceived, defrauded, made poor.

When we have done that. This is what we have heard:
And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.' -Matthew 25:40

Let us honor our King Christ Jesus by doing what He has said.
Let us show mercy and compassion to our neighbors, slow to anger and rich in grace and truth like the Lord.

Let us who says we abides in Christ, let us walk in the same way in which Christ walked.
Why we dare to say ? Because we pray and seek His strength to walk in His ways so that we can be like Him.

 

[HenSoma-OneBody]

Dear one,
You are concerned that those who are called Christians ; that they live just as the world lives, except they do place efforts in trying to be a good person !

This is what we have heard:
Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the LORD. -Jeremiah 17:5
He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land. -Jeremiah 17:6

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. -Jeremiah 17:7
He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." -Jeremiah 17:8

Yes, I am shocked like you when I heard this. Why God curse ? As I meditated again and again and tried to understand what has been spoken.

I understand God doesn’t want our hearts turn away from Him because He loves us.
He told us not to trust in man or even ourselves because our self righteousness and self love makes us sin against Him.
He doesn’t want us to trust in our flesh or bodies or abilities or resources but to trust in Him and to seek His strength.

When we are humbled, we know that our ways are not His ways and our thoughts are not His thoughts. Then we understand what the Lord has said :

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. -Isaiah 55:9

As apostle Paul have said:
as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. -2 Corinthians 4:18

When we look to things that are seen — our ways and our thoughts— they are transient in nature. But the ways and the thoughts of God, though unseen, they are eternal.

So the path of not to be cursed but to be blessed is to trust in the Lord and rely on His strength continuously and daily.

Then we will be like a tree planted by the water, that is, a Christian who offer himself or herself to the Spirit of God to be sanctified with His word.

Why we are not cursed ? Because we submit ourselves to His truth that set us free. For
we heard :
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. -1 Peter 2:24

So dear one,
We can’t live just as the world lives!
Or with exception we placed our efforts in trying to be a good person ! We don’t want to be cursed by God but we want to be blessed by Him and receive the grace that He bore our sins in His body on the tree ! Yes, let us died to sin and live to righteousness. Let us have our relationship with God the Father healed.

And rejoice in His blessings.

Thank you Santoso, there is much to consider here. The soul is eternal, and our final destination is truly what is most important. With this in mind, if we are to obey the commandments of our Lord, we must place God first in all things, and second we must realize that the final destination of the souls around us is so important to the Lord. If we do realize this, then we must allow the Lord to use us as His servants to continue the work He started in His earthly ministry. Jesus wishes no soul to remain separated from Him, and if we are to be Christ-like, we must do the same. We are the light of the world, and as a city on the hill, we should be a place for hope for those who are weary and broken as we offer them the good news of the gospel.

 

[BrotherJJ]

The term “Christian” is only used three times in the New Testament. First, in Acts 11:26 it states, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch;” secondly, in Acts 26:28 states, “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?;” and finally, 1 Peter 4:16 states, “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.”

In simple terms, the word has been used to describe someone who is Christ-like, but what does that really mean. I have heard that if you are a good Christian you go to church, read the bible, prayer, make you offerings, etc.; however, is that what it means to be a Christian? You do not even have to believe in Christ to do those things. Therefore, how would you describe or define what a Christian is to someone who truly wants to be one?

Christ means the Anointed One. Anointed with the Holy Spirit of God

A Christian is someone anointed by Christ with His indwelling Holy Spirit = Christ-in-you

Col 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; """""which is Christ in you""""", the hope of glory:

The prepositional phrase's: "In Christ" "In Him" "In Whom". Are Positional statements used over 100 times in Paul's writings

A Christian is someone anointed by Christ with His indwelling Holy Spirit = Christ-in-you.

How does someone become indwelt with Christ's Holy Spirit?

1st: Understand that there is a Creator God.

2nd: Understand you have sinned against His Sovereign rule. That you derserve Heavens invoked penalty (DEATH) & are in need rescued.

3rd Understand God sent His Son to rescue humanity.

4th: Place your faith/trust in God's offered sin atonement; found in the sinless Christ's death (sins required wage, Paid), burial (proof Jesus died), & resurrection (Father's receipt, sins required wage received & accepted).

Confess with you mouth that Jesus is Lord - God & Savior & believe with all your heart, God raised Jesus from the grave/death.

Rom 10:
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Also see 1 Cor 15:1-4) Amen

 

[HenSoma-OneBody]

Christ means the Anointed One. Anointed with the Holy Spirit of God

A Christian is someone anointed by Christ with His indwelling Holy Spirit = Christ-in-you

Col 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; """""which is Christ in you""""", the hope of glory:

The prepositional phrase's: "In Christ" "In Him" "In Whom". Are Positional statements used over 100 times in Paul's writings

A Christian is someone anointed by Christ with His indwelling Holy Spirit = Christ-in-you.

How does someone become indwelt with Christ's Holy Spirit?

1st: Understand that there is a Creator God.

2nd: Understand you have sinned against His Sovereign rule. That you derserve Heavens invoked penalty (DEATH) & are in need rescued.

3rd Understand God sent His Son to rescue humanity.

4th: Place your faith/trust in God's offered sin atonement; found in the sinless Christ's death (sins required wage, Paid), burial (proof Jesus died), & resurrection (Father's receipt, sins required wage received & accepted).

Confess with you mouth that Jesus is Lord - God & Savior & believe with all your heart, God raised Jesus from the grave/death.

Rom 10:
9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Also see 1 Cor 15:1-4) Amen

Thank you for your insight and time. I pray more and more that people around the world will turn their hearts from this dying world and from the many religious practices that mislead souls away from the narrow way of Christ. Amen!

 

[fhansen]

The term “Christian” is only used three times in the New Testament. First, in Acts 11:26 it states, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch;” secondly, in Acts 26:28 states, “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?;” and finally, 1 Peter 4:16 states, “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.”

In simple terms, the word has been used to describe someone who is Christ-like, but what does that really mean. I have heard that if you are a good Christian you go to church, read the bible, prayer, make you offerings, etc.; however, is that what it means to be a Christian? You do not even have to believe in Christ to do those things. Therefore, how would you describe or define what a Christian is to someone who truly wants to be one?

He or she is someone who's seen God in the person of Jesus Christ and begun to follow Him-and continue to- at the expense of whatever worldly distractions may seek to interfere.

 

[HenSoma-OneBody]

He or she is someone who's seen God in the person of Jesus Christ and begun to follow Him-and continue to- at the expense of whatever worldly distractions may seek to interfere.

And, they must be born again, correct? That is what Jesus told us Nicodemus. In order for someone to see the kingdom of heaven they must be born again.

 

[Albion]

And, they must be born again, correct? That is what Jesus told us Nicodemus. In order for someone to see the kingdom of heaven they must be born again.

Yes, but of course the term is understood differently by different groups of Christians. The best approach may be just to say that a true follower must have a commitment to Christ as the Savior, not just a belief in him as a good man, inspirational leader, or something like that.

 

[HenSoma-OneBody]

Yes, but of course the term is understood differently by different groups of Christians. The best approach may be just to say that a true follower must have a commitment to Christ as the Savior, not just a belief in him as a good man, inspirational leader, or something like that.

Thus, because they a a new creation in Christ, they can no longer live their lives like the many of this world. They must, through the power of the Holy Spirit, take up their cross DAILY and follow Jesus, while allowing Him to do His will with their lives.

 

[fhansen]

And, they must be born again, correct? That is what Jesus told us Nicodemus. In order for someone to see the kingdom of heaven they must be born again.

Yes, but faith is actually the ticket as it means initiation into relationship or communion with the Trinity, and that union is the vital missing element in fallen man that constitutes his spiritual death to begin with. The ancient churches viewed this faith as being formally and publicly professed at baptism, hence the link between baptism and being born again. Most churches still view baptism as important but the act, itself, is meaningless without the faith that motivates it.

 

[misput]

The term “Christian” is only used three times in the New Testament. First, in Acts 11:26 it states, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch;” secondly, in Acts 26:28 states, “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?;” and finally, 1 Peter 4:16 states, “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.”

In simple terms, the word has been used to describe someone who is Christ-like, but what does that really mean. I have heard that if you are a good Christian you go to church, read the bible, prayer, make you offerings, etc.; however, is that what it means to be a Christian? You do not even have to believe in Christ to do those things. Therefore, how would you describe or define what a Christian is to someone who truly wants to be one?

Basically it is anyone who tries to help others out of love for God. The basic meaning of the word love is charity.

 

[PaulCyp1]

"Believe in" can have different meanings. You either "believe in" goblins or you don't. Meaning, believe they exist. On a deeper level, "believe in" means to agree with the thoughts or teachings of someone, and to live your life according to those teachings.

 

[JacksBratt]

I believe that a Christian is one who believes Christ is the Messiah who died on the cross to pay the debt of death for all that accept this as truth. They must accept that they are a sinner and unable to do anything within their own power to overcome their penalty of death for their sins. Once they accept this they are seen as sinless and become a new creature. They will then spread the news of this gospel message and follow in the attitude and ways of their savior until they die.

I don't believe that Christianity should be considered a "religion". I see all and every religion as a man made method of worshiping some greater being.

All of these religions end up with laws, rituals, activities and beliefs that confine those who follow it.

Christ, IMO, did not want religious followers.. He wants a relationship with each and every one who believes on Him. If you walk close with Him, it will be obvious what He wants you to do and not do.. every day.

Christianity belief in Christ and His way of life.. not a religion.

 

[Shrewd Manager]

"Believe in" can have different meanings. You either "believe in" goblins or you don't. Meaning, believe they exist. On a deeper level, "believe in" means to agree with the thoughts or teachings of someone, and to live your life according to those teachings.

Right, it takes perseverance in love (devotion, dedication, conviction, commitment, self-sacrifice, obedience etc) and faith/ trust (Lord have mercy!). And that's why Jesus is the only begotten son of God, because of his perfect identity of word and deed. God's truth, the good shepherd.

 

[Albion]

He's God only because he lived a Godly life, reflective of high ideals?

 

[Lawrence87]

I think to some degree it's down to the individual to say whether or not they are Christian, their relationship with Christ is not my business.

I'd say for the sake of simplicity it is someone who agrees with the following:

I believe in one God, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all ages; Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten, not created, of one essence with the Father through Whom all things were made. Who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became man. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and was buried; And He rose on the third day, according to the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father; And He will come again with glory to judge the living and dead. His kingdom shall have no end.

And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, Who proceeds from the Father, Who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, Who spoke through the prophets.

In one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church*

I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the age to come.

*This bit is controversial among Protestants, so I'd say not essential to be defined as a Christian.

If you go against any of these major points, I'd say in my personal opinion you're misguided, but again that's between the individual and Christ.

 

[Ayenew]

The term “Christian” is only used three times in the New Testament. First, in Acts 11:26 it states, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch;” secondly, in Acts 26:28 states, “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?;” and finally, 1 Peter 4:16 states, “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.”

In simple terms, the word has been used to describe someone who is Christ-like, but what does that really mean. I have heard that if you are a good Christian you go to church, read the bible, prayer, make you offerings, etc.; however, is that what it means to be a Christian? You do not even have to believe in Christ to do those things. Therefore, how would you describe or define what a Christian is to someone who truly wants to be one?

A Christian is one who is of the family of Christ. One who believes in the redeeming work of Christ and lives according to the rules of His family, which is the will of God.

 

[HenSoma-OneBody]

A Christian is one who is of the family of Christ. One who believes in the redeeming work of Christ and lives according to the rules of His family, which is the will of God.

How does one truly become a member of the family of Christ?

 

[Mountainmike]

It is a name that others use of Christians. As shown in the first reference! Just as the "Roman Catholic" church is a name only others use of a church that calls itself the Catholic Church. It matters little what others call us!

But in keeping with the title:
Christians have struggled to deserve the title throughout the ages.
Mahatma Gandhi once said "if your christians were more like your Christ", I might have become one!
That is not a glowing tribute for so called Christians behaviour across the millennia

 

[Ayenew]

How does one truly become a member of the family of Christ?

Through believing in Him and His works. And obedience to Him.

 

[GraceBro]

The term “Christian” is only used three times in the New Testament. First, in Acts 11:26 it states, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch;” secondly, in Acts 26:28 states, “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?;” and finally, 1 Peter 4:16 states, “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.”

In simple terms, the word has been used to describe someone who is Christ-like, but what does that really mean. I have heard that if you are a good Christian you go to church, read the bible, prayer, make you offerings, etc.; however, is that what it means to be a Christian? You do not even have to believe in Christ to do those things. Therefore, how would you describe or define what a Christian is to someone who truly wants to be one?

A Christian is a person who believes the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is born again of the Spirit of God.