Every Christian Should Be…

It would be be very difficult to develop a list or manual describing what every Christian ought to be. Any publication containing less than the whole of the Bible would be inadequate and any containing more would be unauthorized (Revelation 22:18-19). However, it’s important to talk about our behavior as Christians especially around those who are not part of the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:3, Galatians 3:27).

Peter talked about the importance of the Christian’s behavior among the heathen in 1 Peter 2:1-20. In the first ten verses Peter describes the necessity of becoming one of God’s chosen people. We must do away with sinful activities and seek the “sincere milk of the word” (v1-2). When individuals humbly obey Christ and leave the desires of the world they are built together like stones used to build a house (v3-5). These who have been called out of sin to righteousness (the church) are aligned together perfectly by the “chief corner stone” who is Christ (v6). Those who obey Christ remain as part of this structure, and are become “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people,” having obtained mercy as the people of God (v7-10).

Following this primary instruction are further commands that can only be accomplished after the first is in effect. Christians must abstain from fleshly lusts and conduct themselves honestly among the world, despite any evil speaking (v11-12). Furthermore, Christians must be subject to the governing authorities and ultimately to God (v13-18). Finally, as Christians set a great example among unbelievers, they are to patiently endure any suffering for accusations of which they are not guilty (v19-20).

It’s clear that God holds His people to a high standard. This admonition should not be taken lightly by Christians at any stage of maturity. If a man or woman can first be a faithful Christian then success can be found in being a good example among the “Gentiles” of today.

Jesus commanded His followers to be good examples to the world. The Lord said that those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake are blessed (Matthew 5:10-12). Notice that He is speaking about the same people when He states, “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:13-16). Christians are to be an influence for good in the world despite the persecution that comes with faithful living.  Faithful Christian living needs to be seen by the world. Why did both Peter and Jesus emphasize the Christian influence so much?

When Jesus mentions salt, light, and the city on the hill, He is focusing on the redeeming qualities of those elements. Salt has a saving ability; it provides preservation and seasoning. Certainly the example of Christians can save others by leading them to learn about Christ. Light can bring one away from danger and darkness either by providing a focal point, illuminating the correct path, or exposing the danger itself. Not only must Christian do this to be faithful themselves, but they may save others by their example. Finally, a city is seen. Though Matthew 6:5 teaches Christians aren’t to do good things for the purpose of being seen, we are commanded to be a city that can’t be hidden to the glory of God (Matthew 5:14-16).

 

In consideration of the Christian’s responsibility to be a good example to others, what should every Christian be?

1. Every Christian Should Be Happy and Content. Why would anyone want to be a Christian if the Christian they knew was always complaining, always down, and always had a problem? As Christians rejoice always their joy should be seen (Philippians 4:4). Paul says that he had to learn to be content (Philippians 4:11).

2. Every Christian Should Be Reverent. Obviously reverence of God is important in any era, but in our time especially reverence for God is lacking. When I show the world that I respect God to the point that I am serious when I speak of Him, faithful in attending the services of His worship, and diligent in my Bible study, they may consider their own lives.

3. Every Christian Should Be Working. The people who really know you know your schedule. If Christianity is something you “do” for Sunday and Wednesday services only, then they may not be very impressed with your admonitions that they become a Christian and labor for God. The most important work you will do this week is what you do for the kingdom whether you are a preacher, elder, teacher, or faithful member (1 Corinthians 15:58, Ecclesiastes 9:10).

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