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What's in a
name?
by Rev.
Myrl Eddings
Jesus
Christ…this name conjures all sorts of ideas, opinions, and controversy. Predictably,
His followers carry the same stigma. And sadly, much of the confusion lingers among
Christians, at least in western civilization. There seems to be an identity crisis
in much of the true church today. Perhaps people have forgotten the significance of
the word “Christ”—the anointed one. Still millions globally embrace
the title of Christian or just as often use it as a subtitle that follows the brand name
of some protestant denomination or Catholicism. Others even adhere to occult groups
or profess to have psychic powers: all under the guise of Christianity. With
so many contradictory viewpoints, someone must be in error.
The
good news is that we don’t have to go far to remedy the chaos. The Bible is
filled with sound wisdom and direction. Those who have strayed away from the truth
(aka Jesus), need only to take His advice and review their beliefs by searching the Holy
Scriptures (John 5:39). One major reason people are reluctant to go to the Bible for
answers is that, in an age where relativity rules, it obliterates much of life’s gray
areas and speaks in absolute terms. It offers very little wiggle room for those who
prefer compromise.
The misguided masses
don’t always manifest their true colors in what they say. Maybe every bit as
much an indicator of deception can be found in their way of life. While most avid
church members talk a good game, the practical day-to-day activities and conduct tell the
real story. Many resist regular attendance at church services in lieu of other plans
such as family outings, recreation, or even volunteering to work overtime. The
desire for a closer fellowship with the Lord simply doesn’t exist. Witnessing
to the lost to these types seems radical to say the least. It’s unthinkable to
make a revival when it conflicts with something “more important”, like shopping
or hunting. Asking them to make a serious commitment of time or effort for God is
laughable. A regular prayer life and study of the Word are foreign concepts to these
people.
It’s time to get
real. Jesus said we could know the tree by what type of fruit it bears (Luke 6:44).
He warned us to beware the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Referring
to the doctrine they taught, Christ recognized that the elite religious leaders of the day
focused on appearances and failed to have substantial faith to back up their profession.
The Savior cautioned that everyone who cries “Lord, Lord” wouldn’t
enter the kingdom of Heaven. God told Samuel long ago, ‘Man looks on the
outward appearance, but God looks on the heart.’ Be sure that His vision is
perfect. Others may be deceived, but on judgment day, He’ll not be.
Fortunately, He longs to assist us in our walk with Him, if we’ll sincerely
approach to Him. Remember, Paul ‘s admonition for all who identify themselves
with the name of Christ to depart from iniquity. It’s the least we can do for
all God has done for us.
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