This has forced me back to the roots of "Christian." Acts 11:26 tells us that the disciples were first called "Christians" at Antioch.
I heard it preached that a Christian is these three things:
~A Sinner.
~A Believer.
~A Follower of Jesus Christ.
Romans 3:20-24 "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:"
Matthew 16:24 Also supports it: "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."
One man I talked to said he believed some of the Bible, but couldn't believe all of it. 2nd Timothy 3:16-17 is the reply to that. "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."
Some said that they just believe they have to be good to get to Heaven. John 14:6 "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:36"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight.
The word "Christian" literally means "Christ-like." Not very many who claim the title Christian actually fit it, unfortunately.
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