A servant girl gave the following definition of a Christian: “People that go to church and chapel, that talk about religion, and take the Parson home for tea.” No doubt— this is what the little girl had gathered as she watched those who professed Christianity.

Thought: Christian names are everywhere. Christian men are rare.

In Acts 11:26, we see the attitude of a city towards Christianity.

In Acts 26:28, we see the attitude of a convicted sinner towards Christianity.

In 1 Peter 4:16 we see the attitude of a Christian towards suffering.

The city of Antioch was one of the most sinful, ungodly, unrighteous, unholy, and sensual places on the face of the earth. In the midst of all this, a handful of Christians began to attract attention.

This is the way it ought to be in 2020. God’s people ought to live in such a manner, talk in such a manner, and act in such a manner that they get a sinful world’s attention.

Question: What are you doing in your neighborhood or workplace to get a sinful man’s attention?

Question: What constitutes a Christian?

I. Faith makes a Christian. How?

A) Faith saves. Hebrews 11:6 and Ephesians 2:8-9

B) Faith justifies. Romans 4:1-5 and Romans 5:1

C) Faith keeps. 1 Peter 1:3-5

Yes— faith makes a Christian.

II. Life proves a Christian.

A true Christian is one who does not say— but lives a transformed, separated, Godly, and dedicated life.

What are the marks of a true Christian? 1 John

A) A true Christian cannot walk in darkness. 1 John 1:6-7

B) A true Christian cannot be disobedient. 1 John 2:4-5

C) A true Christian cannot hate. 1 John 2:9-11

D) A true Christian cannot love the world. 1 John 2:15

E) A true Christian cannot live a life of sin. 1 John 3:4-10

F) A true Christian cannot doubt God’s Word. 1 John 5:9-11

Yes— faith makes a Christian. Life proves a Christian.

III. Trials confirm a Christian. 1 Peter 1:7

A true Christian will persevere in the midst of a storm. Oh— the lions may frighten him, doubts may lead him into captivity, flattery may ensnare him— but he keeps on.

John 8:31- What did Jesus tell the believing Jew?

1 Peter 4:12-13 tells the true Christian to not be surprised at the trials and suffering— just keep rejoicing.

Yes— faith makes a Christian, life proves a Christian, trials confirm a Christian and…

IV. Death crowns a Christian. 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Oh— if you are a Christian, look for and love the doctrine of the coming of Christ. You will have earned the crown of righteousness. What a crowning day— that day you give up this old body and step into the presence of the Savior.

What is a Christian?

• In faith, a believer in Jesus
• In relationship, a child of God
• In influence, a light
• In communion, a friend
• In conflict, a soldier
• In experience, a pilgrim
• In expectation, an heir

Are you a real Christian or just one in name only?