Defining a Christian

How do you define a Christian? Is it based upon one's good behavior or is it based upon something greater?

This week I have been reading J. Gresham Machen's classic, "Christianity and Liberalism" in which he speaks of Paul's tolerance. In Philippians 1:18 Paul writes, "What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice." Paul is saying, "I know these guys are envious and preaching out of rivalry. I know these teachers are trying to afflict me in my imprisonment. I realize these are not nice people. But I rejoice because Jesus is being proclaimed." Paul is very gracious here!

However, when we turn to Galatians, Paul's attitude is very different. In Galatians 1:8 we read, "But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed." Here Paul says, "Yea, I know these men are very moral people but they are teaching that one is saved by Christ plus good works - such thinking is terribly wrong and such people should be cursed." Wow! Where is Paul's gracious attitude now?

Add to this, Paul's affirming words to the immoral Corinthians: "to the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. . ." (1 Cor. 1:2). This church was guilty of disunity, immorality, drunkenness and more and yet Paul does not question their faith like he questions the faith of the Galatians.

Why? I believe the answer is simple. We are identified as believers not by what we have done but by what Christ has accomplished for us. Upon that Old Rugged Cross our old nature has been put to death. At Gethsemane the wrath of God was poured out upon Christ rather than me. On that first Good Friday the blood of Jesus washed away my sins. I am a Christian because I have placed my confidence in the person and work of Jesus Christ!

Now this does not give me license to behave like the Corinthian believers or the preachers described in Philippians. In fact, this work of Christ should and will transform me. But now and forever, I will be identified as a child of God, not because of my morality but rather due to the gracious and wondrous act of Jesus Christ.

To God be the glory great things He has done!