Every movement attracts imitations and
counterfeits.Christianity is no exception.
Being a Christian is not the same as
being a member of a big church (though big churches want
you to think it is),
giving lots of money to charitable causes (though
charitable causes want you to think it is),
living a better life than other people (though people who
think they're better than others want you to think it is).
The Bible defines "Christians" in Acts 11:26, "the disciples
were called Christians." A Christian is a disciple, a follower, of
Jesus Christ. His teachings don't authorize big institutions, or
organizational hierarchies, or power politics. What does he require of
his followers?
He wants us to understand that we have
broken God's law and must repent of our sin. "Except ye repent, ye
shall all likewise perish," Luke 13:3,5.
He wants us to recognize that he died
to redeem us from our sin. "The Son of Man came not to be ministered
unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many," Matthew
20:28.
He wants us to know that he rose from
the dead, victorious over the power of sin and hell. "I lay down my
life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay
it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to
take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father," John
10:17,18.
He wants us to receive his free offer
of salvation. "He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent
me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is
passed from death unto life," John 5:24.
He wants us to expect that when we
follow him, he will give us spiritual power to live lives that exalt
him. "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon
you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me ... unto the uttermost part of
the earth," Acts 1:8.
He wants us to love other Christians
and care for them. "Where two or three are gathered together in my
name, there am I in the midst of them," Matthew 18:20.
Becoming a Christian is a personal transaction between you and
the Lord Jesus, but it will make you a member of his body, the company
of those who seek to follow him in simplicity and sincerity. If we can
help you on your pilgrimage, please feel free to contact us at the
email address below.