The semester is coming to an end and our class has looked into topics involving the Christian worldview. While our class has grown by reflecting on these questions, there are other Christians that need to grow in the understanding of what a Christian worldview is really about.
There are times when Christians are portrayed negatively, especially in political media. Some people proclaim to be Christians, but yet act and say outlandish things. When they proclaim their faith, media shows that they are a representation of Christ and all other Christians in American society. The American society has tensions in political parties and recent issues like homosexuality, abortion, and healthcare. For this reason, Christians have expressed their concerns. However, in doing so, Christians should remember to be mindful: it is not just what they stand for, but rather, how they stand for their values.
In one of my classes, we discussed the issue of the “subchristian.” This term identifies a person who acts inappropriately, shouting harsh words and misusing scripture to make a point, and yet claims to know Jesus. One example from class involved a “Christian” man who attended a homosexual man’s funeral and used violent, slandering language as the homosexual’s family carried him away in a casket.
Jesus was not violent. He came to fulfill the law and still condoned things, but did it in a loving manor. We need a love that comes from God because sometimes working from our own effort or strength is not enough.
“The grace you show other people should act as a reflection of how we have grace with God.” My pastor shared this with me once. He explained that in order to accomplish this, we need to remain in His love. This is one reason why we are encouraged to stay in the Word. It is foolish to try and please God without even knowing him. This could very well be the problem for the subchristian.
