The term “Christian” has increasingly come to feel more like a generic label than a reflection of a deep commitment to following and becoming like Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself warned that not everyone who claims His name truly belongs to Him: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21).
A recent report from the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University found that 69% of U.S. adults identify as Christian. However, Scripture reminds us that numbers alone do not equal faithfulness: “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:13–14). Only a small fraction—about 6%—hold a biblical worldview and consistently understand and live by biblical principles.
The study revealed that while many self-identified Christians embrace some core principles of the faith, they also hold views that conflict with Scripture—such as believing people are inherently good. The Bible teaches otherwise: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9), and “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
Many rely more on feelings, personal experiences, and social influences than on God’s Word for moral guidance, despite Scripture clearly stating, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105). About 58% believe the Holy Spirit is not a real, living being, even though Jesus said, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:13). Additionally, 57% accept the idea of karma, which contradicts the biblical truth that “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7) under God’s moral law, not impersonal forces.
Research shows that only 9% of self-identified Christians hold a biblical worldview. This aligns with Paul’s warning: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” (2 Timothy 4:3–4).
Many who call themselves Christians do not truly recognize Jesus Christ as their Savior in belief or practice. Scripture makes this distinction clear: “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” (Romans 10:9).
So, what does it mean to be a professing Christian? It means publicly declaring faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This often includes baptism, fellowship with other believers, and accepting core Christian teachings such as the Trinity and the authority of Scripture.
However, simply saying you are a Christian does not mean you are living like one. Jesus said, “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Being a Christian means striving to live out Christ’s teachings—showing love and compassion, serving others, living with integrity, praying continually, and spending time in God’s Word.
Being a Christian also means recognizing personal sin and seeking forgiveness through Christ. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). It includes reconciliation and obedience to Christ’s commands.
Simply calling yourself a Christian doesn’t make it so. As Jesus said, “…Ye must be born again.” (John 3:7). This starts with asking God to forgive your sins (Acts 3:19), accepting Jesus as the Son of God (John 1:12), and placing your full faith in Him (Ephesians 2:8–9). Being a Christian means following His example every day and striving to become more like Him in all areas of life. It’s not always easy, but it requires a real, personal relationship with Jesus Christ—both now and for eternity.
Many self-proclaimed Christians will end up spending eternity in hell. Jesus said in Matthew 7:22-23 “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.“You can call yourself whatever you like, but without a personal relationship with Christ, you won’t be welcomed into heaven.
Are you a true believer? If not there’s no better time than now to start living as if it were your last day on earth. Just take a moment to pray—tell God you believe His Son, Jesus, paid for your sins and rose from the grave. Let Him know you’re sorry and want to live for Him. He will forgive your sins and mistakes, give you eternal life with Him, and place His Spirit deep within your heart. As 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” and Romans 10:9 tells us, ”that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;“
May God Bless. Bob. ——————————————————————————————————————–
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. I’m not an expert or associated with any religious organization—just a follower of my Lord Jesus Christ. These are simply my personal thoughts and observations. My hope is that I’ve sparked some ideas for you to reflect on. There’s one place where all the answers to life can be found, and that guide is commonly known as the Bible. If you’re seeking answers, all you need to do is read. If you’d like me to pray with you or share your thoughts, feel free to email me at Bob.L@magnificentpromises.com or use the form below.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
