I don’t use the term “Christian” very much anymore. I’m not ashamed of the name; I just find that it elicits some very negative and erroneous ideas as soon as you mention the name “Christian”. I prefer to use the term “Christ follower” or “disciple”. You can go here and read this article and you can see some of the recent stats put out by The Barna Group regarding young adult’s perception of Christianity.
Jesus never invited anyone to be a “Christian”; what He commanded His followers to do was make “disciples” (Matthew 28:18-20). The call of a disciple is clear, if anyone wants to be a follower of Christ they must love Him more than their own family even more than their own life (Luke 14:25-27). Disciples are filled with the same compassion that Jesus displayed and they love the unlovely (Mark 1:40ff.) Disciples are willing to befriend sinners (Matt. 9:10ff.) A disciple is also willing to offend Pharisees if necessary (Luke 13:10ff.)
Anyone can call themselves a Christian or a disciple of Christ, but the proof is in the fruit of their lives.
(disclaimer--I am writing this on the fly so inconsistent thoughts and typos are probable if not likely--great blog Kris)
ReplyDeleteI know people who want to get away from a label because of the "negative" view some have. I know several who would dump the "Friends" or "Quaker" name in a heartbeat. Would that make me less of a Quaker...maybe. If I remember correctly, Christians means "little Christs". Would it not be better to keep the name and show those who have the negative perception that Christians are not who they think they are?
The Barna link said:
"What Churches Need to Do
Unfortunately, many churches are creating an arrogant image. Do we forget that it was God’s kindness that saved us? Instead of focusing on flaws, focus on potential.
The church needs to stop being “in your face” and start focusing on service, sacrifice, humility, and grace."
I agree with the focusing on service, sacrifice, humility, and grace. But, Jesus was in your face. When He preached his "I am the Bread of Life" sermon, He was in their faces (and most of them left Him) and right after that when He declared He was I AM in the temple He was definitely in their faces.
The crowds and the leaders definitely thought Jesus was arrogant. "Who does he think he is (who do you think you are)?" was a common question through out the Gospels because they thought Jesus was an arrogant rabbi who didn't know his place.
All that to say---those outside the Church are always going to have a differing opinion about the Church and if we cater to their opinion, we will gradually become a social club where they feel welcomed.
I am a Christian (disciple, Christ-follower, whatever)who identifies with the Quakers in theological issues (not all--let's not go there!) and I will not change that to suit someone's preference on titles. I will show them what I am by my actions.
PS I turned 36 in March--I am looking at retirement homes next week--downhill happens quickly!
Kenny,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your thoughts and great comments - good to hear from you.
No matter the label that is attached to those who claim the Name of Christ the model is clear and the challenge is very real.
Great thoughts.
re: PS - I didn't know you had one foot in the grave too. =)