feel like they are at constant battle with the way other "Christians" represent Christianity, but are Christians themselves. So that makes them feel like everytime they tell someone they are a Christian they have to defend themselves right away? Why can't those who want to be genuine have a new name?
2006-07-11 12:52:45 · 19 answers · asked by Patagonia 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I am not a Christian, but judging from the representation of Christians here, I can understand why you might feel a little defensive.
Don't take it too hard though, some of the people I admire most have a quiet faith that doesn't intrude, and makes me feel welcome to change my mind to their way of thinking. Lead by example, do what makes you satisfied that the right thing has been done. Honest people won't judge you long on the behavior of others.
2006-07-11 12:59:11 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
Yes. I think the problem has several facets.
All of us fail to be perfect examples of Christ's love in one way or another. Some more than others, I suppose, but we all fall short. All of us at one time or another have been the 'bad example' to someone.
No matter we did live as perfect examples, many people have their own issues with the Christian faith. They had a bad experience, they don't like the some or all of the concepts, they thinkselves above it, whatever. They will find fault with Christians regardless.
I think it is interesting that Christ's harshest words are reserved for the religious leaders of His day. We often hear that God is an angry old man just waiting for us to blow it so He can shake his finger and send us to hell. Yet, if Christ was God incarnate, He offers a very different example.
Christ had no harsh words for those who came in humility. Christ shook His finger at the church leaders and suggested that they were going to hell.
Christ promised us that we would be persecuted. I don't think we can hide from that by changing our name.
2006-07-11 20:11:00 · answer #2 · answered by smittie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not exactly, but I have been embarrassed by some things people have said before about Christians they knew. I think we all could be better representatives of Christ.
But we must remember that we are told by Jesus, "In this world, you will have trouble. The whole world will hate you because of me."
You may call yourself anything you wish. There's no law that ways you have to call yourself a Christian.
2006-07-11 19:58:17 · answer #3 · answered by Einsteinetta 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it does seem like Christianity has the hypocrites and the genuine Christians. I guess that's part of the religion though.
2006-07-11 19:55:57 · answer #4 · answered by Sunnydays 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Various denominations define their "idea" of Christianity. I, frankly speaking, wouldn't even call most denominations that call themselves Christian's Christian. They severely lack what it takes to be a true Christian.
Much more that can be said about this topic.
2006-07-11 20:06:27 · answer #5 · answered by Exodus 20:1-17 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could call yourself something different. It would have the added benefit of being a topic of conversation all its own. "Oh, youre a ______? What do you believe?"
There may even be some historical names for Christians that might be good, but just aren't used any more.
Muslims used to be called Mohammedans, but enough of them objected to that that it's no longer in use.
2006-07-11 20:27:03 · answer #6 · answered by Tim 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't want to change thr name. But I do agree that many people that call themselves Christians should start ACTING like Christians.
2006-07-11 19:56:47 · answer #7 · answered by David T 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Oh,you have something there.I'm not Christian,but I have trouble with the hypocrisy with a lot of them.It's just too bad that it's come to this.Make your own term.That's how it all starts,someone came up with the term Christian for a follower of Christ.
2006-07-11 19:57:57 · answer #8 · answered by kimberli 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Christian is the belief that Jesus Christ is God's son and died on the cross for all of us. That is what I know. So the name shouldnt have to change...Christians should just live up to the name. You know what Im saying?
2006-07-11 19:56:21 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good idea. Start a new church. No one has ever thought of that yet. Call it the Genuine Christians. The Real Deal. And I am loving it. ba ba bam bam bam
2006-07-11 19:57:37 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋