from author Eric Shuster
SECTION 2:
WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN?—a Definition
Chapter 6: It’s
Clear According to the Bible
The title of this chapter suggests one
need only proceed to Acts 11:26, Acts 26:28, or 1 Peter. 4:16 (the three places
in the New Testament where the word “Christian” appears) and read a sentence
that begins with “a Christian is…” Unfortunately it is not be that easy.
Jesus taught that we must “search the
scriptures” (John 5:39). The word “search” translated in this case meaning to
search diligently or anxiously. This is exactly what author Eric
Shuster did after finding little satisfaction in the previous chapter’s effort.
His deep dive studied separately the words attributed directly to Jesus Christ
in the New Testament (KJV) and those attributed to the New Testament authors
starting in Acts.
Defining a Christian begins with the core
of Christianity itself—belief in Jesus Christ. Everlasting life or eternal life
is the ultimate goal of every Christian and is therefore often associated with
being a Christian. According to Jesus Christ one must believe in Him to gain
eternal life or everlasting life, otherwise he is condemned (John 3:18). To believe
in Jesus Christ is to believe He is the Messiah, the only begotten Son of God,
the Light of the World, the Forgiver of Sins, the Good Shepherd, the Only Way
to the Father and He who is one with the Father. However, while belief can
bring about great things Matthew 7:21-23 indicates to know Christ alone may not
be enough.
Beyond belief comes repentance (Mark
1:15), baptism (Mark 16:16) and partaking of the Lord’s Supper (John 6:54). a
Christian follows Christ (John 10:27) and in doing so makes sacrifices (Luke
9:23) and demonstrates love (Matt.22:37-39)—including keeping “His”
commandments (John 14:15).
Searching the words of the New Testament
authors beyond the four gospels reveals some very interesting transitions.
While belief in Christ is still emphasized the term “eternal life” is mostly
replaced with “salvation.” The word “grace” enters the conversation (Eph. 2:5)
despite the fact Jesus himself never used the term.
The New Testament authors go on to
discuss the importance of following Jesus Christ and emulating his
characteristics (1 Pet. 2:21) and that salvation comes through faith (2 Tim.
3:15), repentance (2 Cor. 7:10), obedience (Heb.5:9), and even suffering (Rom.
8:18). The books of the Bible after the four gospels reinforce the significance
of conversion, repentance, baptism and the Lord’s Supper as well as the
prominent role of the Holy Ghost. In addition the authors write of key values
and characteristics that followers of Christ should embrace and live as His
disciples.
The exercise from the previous chapter
and this in-depth search of the New Testament helps produce a two part
definition of a Christian: a Believing Christian and a Practicing
Christian (see the book for details). The process of defining a
Christian doesn’t stop there. The next chapter puts the definition to the test
using quantitative data from a number of landmark Christian studies to test its
relevancy and application.
Go to www.findyourchristianity.com to
watch the book trailer, find out what type of Christian you are, and to order
the book.
Where are the
Christians? The Unrealized Potential of a Divided Religion
by Eric Shuster
Coming May 2013!
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