Marks of a Christian

Marks of a Christian. We use a lot of symbols to signify our beliefs as Christians. Some people wear the crucifix around their necks or on their finger or maybe even dangling from their ears. Some have the Christian fish symbol applied to the trunk of their car. Many people have the “Thank You Jesus” signs in their yards. All of these are great things but what about marks of action that show we are who we say we are: Christians. It’s a bit hypocritical to have these symbols as Christians but we don’t “act” like Christians.

So, how are we supposed to “act” if we really are Christians? I think the Apostle Paul gave us a great list in Romans chapter 12 of what the marks of a Christian should include:

9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.

10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.

12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.

15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.

16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.

18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."

20 To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head."

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:9-21.

If we, who call ourselves Christians, live by these things outlined in Romans 12:9-21, we will show the world who we are and what we believe. We won’t have to wear a crucifix, or have a fish on our car or a sign in our yard; people will know by how we act and treat others.

Have a great day and God bless.