When people hear the term “Christian”, usually one of two things happen: they either shudder with disgust or perk with interest. The religion has become very divisive in our current culture, and with good reason. Christianity isn’t exactly the easiest concept to grasp.
From its beginnings documented in the Bible of religious leaders who mocked Christ’s life on earth to misinformed activists reported in the media doing basically the same thing, there is a misunderstanding of Jesus Christ that Christians can effectively fix. The things that seem to cast a harsh light upon Christianity happen not only on TV reports but frequently today in our own neighborhoods. To shun and condemn a person because of their lifestyle or choices they make directly affects the way Christians are perceived.
The New Testament chronicles many instances where Jesus stayed away from the “religious” and instead shared His message with the ones who needed Him the most – the poor, beggars, prostitutes, the men and women so lost in their own negative lives who were searching help. Jesus’ teachings were not meant to harshly condemn, but to love. Relationships were formed and, although not everyone understood Him or His wisdom, the fact that these teachings hold up today shows that Christ was truly a prophet who led by example.
So how can the bleak view of Christians change? By following Christ’s example and loving all creation. Undoubtedly it isn’t an easy task, and we are told by Christ in John 15:18,
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first”. (NIV)
However that shouldn’t stop His followers from following Him correctly. The result of loving people first and then helping them can go a long way in “fixing” the world’s view of Christians.
Comments
Oh so true. Thanks for another message that applies.
Good stuff! There really are too many that don't understand because we have done such a poor job of illustrating Gods' love.
Great job! I've always believed until we build a relationship with someone, we are not doing Christ's will. Once a relationship is built, then we can freely proclaim the Gospel to those who are in need and they will openly receive it. Without the relationship, the words we speak fall on deaf ears.
You are so right. We must truly learn to love our neighbors so they can see Christ through us.
I love this! It's so very true, and I wish everyone would apply this in their own lives. Jesus is a very mysterious man...one of many things I love so much about him. If we could all be so accepting and loving as he...picture the state our world would be in now. Love it. :)
I strongly agree, we must service as examples for others to see.
Allowing the love of God to shine through us.
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