Christian Living

---

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land”. (2 CHRONICLES 7:14)

In today's political charged world, one may be wear many labels. If you lean to any religious point of view, you may then be labeled religious or even noted as a Christian. So, what does these special title mean and what had you rather be called.

Religion is a striking subject, which sometimes seems to be rather controversial. To some, Religion may be interrupted as meaning made in nature, as it is widely claimed to be related to God and deities. So, what is Religion, and it's realities, all about ? Is it's concept it with or against the Bible(Scriptures) ? Well, religion is a rather broad term, as there are many religions throughout the world. Some of which embrace God's theology while others do not. I have even heard it said that some go as far as to embrace the wilderness and trees as their God's.

The title of Christian has been a very good example of the follows of Christ, from its very inception within the early Church. The New Testament manuscripts were written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic originally not English, as English did not exists at this point. The Greek word for Christian found in these passages is: Christian meaning a follower of Christos (Christ). However, the early day Christians never had any formal "name" for themselves but were later called Christians by the Romans.

• Acts 11:26, "and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it came about that for an entire year they met with the church, and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch."
• Acts 26:28, "And Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
• Peter 4:16, "but if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him 1 glorify God."

In this political correct current world, the title of Christian seems to have become rather revolting within certain circles. Much like the title of policeman. If a Christian Minister, or a well known Christian Layman, succumbs to a sinful act, the very first media headings are scoped by the word "Christian".

As for me, I'd much rather be known as a "follower of Christ" than be called a "Christian", according to today's society. Reason being, if known as a "Christian, then the general population would be enticed to label me, according to certain political connotations. And, also would feel needed to treat me a certain way. According to this interpolation, evil would then possible tend to hurt my Christian testimony, as I would be limited, as to what I could say..

However, if know as a "follower of Christ", then I am obligated according to the scripture, to treat others a certain way. And I feel at ease in giving my testimony and sharing the gospel with others.

“For the day of the Lord draws near on all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you. Your dealings will return on your head” (OBEDIAH 1:15)

The story is told, of two boys, who were late for school. As they were running, the boys could see the school house in the distance and could hear the school bell ringing. One boy said, to the other boy,” Why don’t we stop and pray that we won’t be late”. The other boy then replied by saying” Why don’t we continue to run and pray while we run”.

Yes, we must not only Pray but we must act. So, let's go to work.

"The bricks have fallen down, But we will rebuild with smooth stones; The sycamores have been cut down, But we will replace them with cedars" ( Isaiah 9:10)

Have you ever felt as if you were taking one step forward and two steps back, in this old world. Well, I've been there and seemly done that. However, our loving Heavenly Father is still in command. And, may we never forget.

The bricks, of our world, may fall around us, but God promises they will be replaced with smooth stones, coated with Heavens blessings. In other words, the stumbling blocks of life are simply just stepping stones, in God's world.

Yes, our freedom is in the Lord, and may we never forget that, as well.

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you."(Isaiah 43:2)

Amen !

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE