Faith

THE AUTHENTIC CHRISTIAN

by Morris Inch
04/28/17
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THE AUTHENTIC CHRISTIAN

"Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude," Peter urges his readers. "As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God" (1 Peter 4:1-2). The rest of his earthly life suggests a contrast between how a person lived previously, and after his or her decision to follow Christ. If, in fact, there is an authentic exchange.

In particular, this consists of turning from a life compromised by evil human desires and one according to the will of God. This is not to suggest that the person was without some good inclination previously. In Jewish tradition, it is said that one has both a good and evil disposition. It is said to resemble an angel sitting on one shoulder, and a demon on the other. It remains for the individual to decide which he will listen to.

Moreover, C. S. Lewis differentiates between Christians and nice people. Consequently, he urged that we pray that nice people become Christians, and Christians become nice. Needless to say, we are all works in progress.

Peter reasons further that we should embrace the same attitude as Christ in suffering in the pursuit of God’s will. Hence, suffering is portrayed not as an exception, but as a normal consequence. As such, it provides a distinctive opportunity to glorify God.

This brings to mind an occasion when a devout neighbor shared with me her concern that she had not experienced suffering, as one would expect. On the one hand, she had not been threatened because of her faith. On the other, her devotion was lavished on a large family, along with constructive results. So that her discipleship was not without cost. In keeping with this line of reasoning, Deitrich Bonhoeffer concluded that whatever the circumstances, the authentic Christian experiences death to one’s former self, and life in Christ—to employ Paul’s signature expression.

The imagery of Psalm 23 next comes to mind as a further elaboration. "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want" (v. 1). Regardless of circumstances, and uniquely so. In terms of the lyric refrain, "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine."

"He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters" (v. 2). That is, he provides times of spiritual refreshment. Sometime in what seems to be the most unlikely of circumstances. Especially as we reflect back on what has transpired, as if an indication of God’s creative initiatives.

"He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake" (v. 3). Reminiscent of the rocky paths that cross the Judean hill country. Where otherwise, one might readily lose his way.

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me" (v. 4). As in the deep ravines, where wild beasts and thieves wait to attack the flock. Giving rise to another lyric refrain, "The God on the mountain is the God in the valley."

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemy. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (vv. 5-6). Goodness and love, as if two faithful guard dogs—encouraging them to follow their shepherd, and protecting the flock against its adversaries.

All things considered, we will allow Peter a final word: "Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed" (1 Peter 3:13-14). Do good and the prospect of suffering may be diminished but not alleviated. Not in an authentic Christian life, as results from following Christ.

As a result, be prepared. As a result, persist in one’s righteous resolve. As a result, learn to rely on the Lord—in good times and during times of adversity. Accordingly, do not settle for some appealing substitute.