If you were put on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?
I posed this question to my youth group this week. It's an interesting one to think about. What behavior or actions should people see that would differentiate you from a non-believer, or what behavior and actions should people NOT see in you as a Christian?
You might be asking...What about believing? Isn't it enough? I mean, is it really that big of a deal what people see or don't see, God sees my heart?
Probably you are familiar with John 3:16 "For God so loved the world he gave his only son, that whosoever believes in him, shall not perish but have eternal life". So maybe you are hoping to get by on sheer belief? You say, "I'm good and I believe"! Well, before you get too comfortable in that space, let me challenge you to a reading from James 2:19-20 "You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. How foolish! Can't you see that faith without good deeds is useless?"
You see, from what I can gather as I study the word... belief matters, but believing isn't enough. I mean it's pretty scary when you think if it.... even the Devil believes and I'm not thinking he'll be bunking next to me in heaven ;) True belief takes us to a place of understanding who God is. That takes us to a place of decision, do we or don't we want to make him Lord of our lives? A "yes" opens our heart and life to him. REALLY KNOWING GOD means we give him space in our lives. Space to come in and fill us with who he is. God deposits his own Spirit in you when you open your heart to him. THAT changes you! THAT is something others will see in you.
Showing compassion to a kid at school who is treated unkindly. Sacrificing a "perk" in your life to give to some in need. Obeying your parents when it means you don't get to do what you want. Doing what's right when it might cost you popularity. Setting limits and sticking to them. Dressing in a way that shows you respect your purity (girls). Watching your speech. Being honest with your schoolwork. Speaking kindly of others - NO gossip! I could go on.....
I remember being a teen. I remember how badly I wanted to fit in and be accepted. I get it. It's hard to trust that surrending your life to God is the best adventure you could ever have. It's hard to believe all heaven's power and peace will fill your life. You look around, it's just so hard to see it, everyone is doing their "thing" and it seems so fun. It's your choice. God is waiting to really show you who he is, to radically transform your life.... so that your answer to the the question will be...
GUILTY AS CHARGED!!
AND THERE WILL BE LOTS OF EVIDENCE TO PROVE IT!!