Definition of "Christian"

by Joey Davis

Ambrose Bierce put together a work in 1906 entitled, The Devil's Dictionary. In this book, he defines words that have been ascribed to religious thought since religion began.

Some of these definitions poke fun at "modern day Pharisees."

Some of these definitions are insulting. But worst of all, some of these definitions, intended to be humorous, hit much too close to home. One of these definitions follows:

*Christian, n. - 1.) One who believes that the New Testament is a divinely inspired book admirably suited to the spiritual needs of everyone else.

2.) One who follows the teachings of Christ in so far as they are not inconsistent with a life of sin.

As insulting as I find this definition to be, my honesty also convicts me to admit that there is some truth in the statements of Bierce. He is speaking of the person that I claim to be . . . a Christian. However, he is also speaking of the person that I sometimes become. . . Ungracious!

Jesus said, "Do not judge so that you will not be judged For in the same way you judge. you will be judged and by your standard of measure. it Will be measured to you" ( Matthew 7:1-2) Even though we read and understand this verse, knowing full well it echoed from the throat of the Savior, many times we are still much more gracious with ourselves than we are with others.

Too often the Bible is read as a book of law that is to be imposed on others. But when we approach God's word, we must remember that the Spirit inspired these words so that we could read them and apply them to ourselves, therefore making us useful in His service ( 2 Timothy 3:16-1 7). And if we err in Judging our neighbor, may it be on the side of mercy rather than condemnation.

Christianity is a disciplined lifestyle, but that discipline must be self-imposed. And in order to allow God to work through us for the purpose of winning our neighbor, our lives must be consistent with our claim to godliness. The Word is for everyone, not just everyone else.

We will be most effective in God's service when we see ourselves as one of Bierce's other definitions:

*Saint, n. - A dead sinner revised and edited.