Why are You a Christian?

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8,9).

If someone asked you, “Are you a Christian?”, what would you say? Probably “Yes.” But what if they asked, “Why?”

That’s where a lot of us have problems. I could be stumped if someone asked me that and tempted to say something like, “Well, my parents raised me as a Christian” or even, “Because I believe in God.” But lots of people believe in God, and what if my parents had raised me wrong? No, that is not the reason I am a Christian. When it really comes down to it, what would I say? What would you say?

The True Definition of a Christian. The reason you are a Christian is not because you do good things like go to church or read the Bible. It is not because you were raised in a “Christian” home or nation. It’s not even because you believe in the concept of God. It is because you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and the King that will reign for eternity. Your faith in Jesus is what makes you a Christian—pure and simple.

The Proof. Look at this contrast of two men as proof. Jesus was hanging on the cross between two criminals. Can you picture them? Neither of these men were “good” people, but they had very different attitudes toward Jesus. The one made fun of Jesus, saying, “Aren’t you supposed to be the Messiah? Prove it!” But the other one was deeply humble and replied, “We deserve to die; this man doesn’t.” Then he turned and said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). That’s the clincher: He truly believed that Jesus was the Son of God. And Jesus’ response is the proof that salvation is by faith alone: “I assure you today, you will be with Me in paradise’" (Luke 23:43).

Let It Sink In. Your salvation—eternal life when you die and the complete forgiveness of your sins—is not a matter of good deeds, family heritage, or general belief in God. It is founded on your belief that Jesus is the Son of God, and that He will come back to bring you into His great kingdom. Let this simple fact be the answer to those who ask you why you are a Christian and give you great peace.

Apply It: Explain to someone this week the true definition of a Christian.

So this week, let us pray that:

• We would understand the true definition of a Christian
• We would be able to share it with someone else
• Global Media Outreach would look to Jesus for its direction and example

THANK YOU so much for your prayers. God loves you!