This is an obvious point, but it bears frequent repetition: there’s a significant difference between calling yourself a Christian and actually living like one. In his letter to the Romans Paul puts it this way, “For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but the doers of the law who will be justified” (Romans 2:13). Paul is cautioning Jews who believe they are justified simply because they as a people possess the law of Moses. They should think again. Even Gentiles can be guided in life by a good conscience, he says (v. 14). Those who have faith in God should live out that faith.
Those who call themselves Christians should be prepared to live lives of Christ-like obedience. Those who would be followers of God’s word must allow it to work through them. Attending worship occasionally is not the key to righteousness. Allowing that worship to shape the rest or your life is more in keeping with God’s will. People of faith have received a tremendous gift. The best way to say “thank you” for that gift is to take it seriously and to live as God wills us to live.
Prayer: Lord, may we do more than call ourselves believers, may we also be doers of your word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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