THE LAST RIVER MILE

Anybody can self-identify as “Christian.” This is because definitions of the label are all over the map. Some see “Christian” as nothing more than adhering to a certain moral code. Others will claim the title only because they said certain words and went through a certain ritual in public worship, regardless of how they actually live their lives. There are those who say they are Christian because they espouse “right” theology or have a specific level or biblical knowledge. Others will claim it for no more reason than the nation, family, or church into which they happened to be born. One noteworthy person assertively calls himself a Christian, while having no evident understanding of the biblical description of how heaven is attained. The use of the term Christian has no guardrails or restrictions. In practical terms, it is virtually meaningless.

When Jesus of Nazareth (who is called “The Christ”, or “The chosen/anointed One”) called people to him, he did not invite them to adhere to a particular theology, political viewpoint, body of knowledge, or biblical interpretation. Jesus’ call was to follow him. (Matthew 9:9, for example.) He made clear to those who followed him that there would be one primary means by which people would be known as his followers; his disciples. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35.) And this is not just any individual, random definition of love, as the label “Christian” has been made individualized and random. It is the specific love offered by the God whose very definition is love. It is the God made fully known in the life, death, resurrection, and promised return of Jesus the Christ. It is God in Christ winning victory over all that is determined to define humans and life in any way other than by the love of God. That is how a “Christian” is defined.

So, I don’t use the term “Christian” anymore. I prefer to say “Jesus-follower.” It holds me more accountable.

I’ll see you around the next bend in the river.