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1 John 2:4-6 - Christians aren't perfect - but we should
be working on it!
In 1 John 2:4-6 we read: "The man who says,
'I know him,' but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth
is not in him. But if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete
in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him
must walk as Jesus did." While it is true that our salvation is not
based on what we do, but on our faith in the work of Christ Jesus, we are
still called to live righteous lives. It is unfortunate that Christian
bumper stickers like "CHRISTIANS AREN'T PERFECT - JUST FORGIVEN!"
have appeared because people tend to use this kind of reasoning as an excuse
for unrighteous living. We all agree that adultery, murder, homosexuality,
and stealing are wrong and sinful, but we often don't think twice about
telling a few "white" lies...or having lustful thoughts...or
permanently borrowing stationery from work... We often don't see any problem
with holding grudges or being selfish. Yet this so unlike the teachings
of scripture. Paul writes to Timothy: "But you, man of God, flee from
all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and
gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11). Jesus Himself said: "Why do you call
me, 'Lord, Lord', and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is
like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice."
If we were more aware of how much God hates sin and how much it offends
Him, we would be more reluctant to disobey. How easy it is to purposely
exceed the speed limit, to cheat on our tax returns, or to tell a lie in
order to get out of some commitment. Christians should not behave like
this - we are meant to be different. We are meant to stand out - to ooze
goodness and righteousness - to be lights in a dark and evil world. Let's
not just call Christ "Lord" - let's live as though He is!
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