Since the beginning of mankind, God has inspired men of God to communicate his word and guide people to do right. These men were called “prophets.”
Christianity began about 2,000 years ago when the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ, appeared to the Jewish people. This moment marked the fulfillment of God’s promises as recorded in the scriptures.
Jesus was not just a prophet, however. He was God manifest in the flesh, the ultimate revelation of God’s nature and love for humanity.
Matthew 1:21-23: And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
1 Timothy 3:16: And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Jesus was an example of how everyone should live to please God. His life on earth demonstrated compassion, humility, obedience, and selflessness, all attributes that Christians strive to emulate.
1 Peter 2:21: For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.
Jesus summed up all of the laws and teachings of the prophets in two simple yet profound commandments, encapsulating the essence of righteous living:
Matthew 22:35-40: Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
These two commandments are the foundation of Christian living. Loving God with one’s entire being and loving others as oneself form the bedrock of the Christian faith.
Jesus was also the ultimate sacrifice for all the sins of humanity. Through his crucifixion and resurrection, he provided a way for people to be reconciled with God. This act of redemption and the forgiveness it offers is central to understanding what atonement means in scripture.
1 Peter 2:24-25: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to Christianity. It signifies victory over sin and death, giving believers the hope of eternal life.
Romans 8:11: But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
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What is a Christian?
A Christian is someone who believes in Jesus and seeks to live according to his teachings. This belief is not merely intellectual but involves a transformation of heart and life.
Acts 11:26: And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
To be a Christian is to acknowledge Jesus as Lord and Savior, to follow his example, and to allow his Spirit to guide one’s life.
Characteristics of a Christian
1. A Christian believes in the message of Christ.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Belief in Christ is foundational. It involves trusting in his sacrifice for salvation and his promises for eternal life. Living as a Christian also means preparing oneself spiritually, which can be further understood through the concept of the armor of God, equipping believers to face challenges and stand firm in their faith.
2. A Christian exhibits the fruit of the Spirit.
Matthew 7:17: Even so every good tree brings forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit.
Galatians 5:22-26: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
These fruits are evidence of a transformed life. They reflect the character of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit within a believer.
3. A Christian has the spirit of Jesus Christ dwelling in them (also known as the Holy Ghost).
Acts 5:32: And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
The presence of the Holy Ghost empowers Christians to live righteously and to carry out the mission of sharing the gospel.
4. A Christian has power over sin in their lives.
Acts 1:8: But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Through the power of the Holy Ghost, Christians can overcome the struggles and temptations of sin and live victoriously in Christ.
5. A Christian has forgiveness for sin.
1 John 1:9-10: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Forgiveness is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. It brings restoration and peace, enabling believers to walk in harmony with God.
Living as a Christian
To live as a Christian is to pursue a life of faith, love, and obedience to God. It is a daily commitment to seek God’s will, to grow in spiritual maturity, and to serve others.
Christians are called to be witnesses of God’s love and truth, sharing the message of salvation with the world. This mission is both a privilege and a responsibility, reflecting the heart of Christ’s teachings.
Through prayer, studying scripture, and fellowship with other believers, Christians nurture their relationship with God and find strength for their journey of faith. While challenges and trials may arise, the promise of God’s presence and the hope of eternal life provide comfort and motivation.
Ultimately, Christianity is about a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It is a transformative journey that leads to a life filled with purpose, joy, and peace.
Daniel Lantis has been a pastor and professional speaker for over 41 years, dedicating his life to serving Christ. Throughout his journey, he has given generously, whether it’s money, cars, or buildings, and has never lacked anything in return. He encourages others to give their resources to Jesus, trusting that He will provide abundantly.
