Guilty as Charged?
"If you were arrested for being a Christian, would they have enough evidence to hold you?"
The Courtroom of Life
Imagine for a moment that being a follower of Jesus is a crime. The prosecutor is trying to build a case against you. They search your home, your workplace, and your browser history. They interview your neighbors, your coworkers, and the barista you see every morning.
What kind of evidence would they find?
Circumstantial Evidence: Is the only proof a dusty Bible on a shelf, a church attendance record, or a cross around your neck? In a court of law, circumstantial evidence is often not enough to secure a conviction. Anyone can wear a symbol or sit in a pew.
Hard Evidence: The "smoking gun" of the Christian life is found in The Fruit of the Spirit.
Scripture tells us exactly what this evidence looks like.
The Witness Stand
"Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds." — James 2:18 (NIV)
If your neighbors were put on the witness stand, would they testify to your patience? If your coworkers were subpoenaed, would they speak of your integrity and kindness, even when the boss isn't looking?
The evidence that "convicts" us isn't religious jargon; it is:
Love where there is hatred.
Peace in the middle of chaos.
Patience when things go wrong.
Self-control when we want to lash out.
Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). Love is the ultimate proof. It is the undeniable fingerprint of God on a human life.
The Verdict
The goal of this question isn't to make us feel guilty or ashamed; it's to wake us up. It’s a reminder that our faith is meant to be lived out loud—not for show, but for service.
If you feel like the "evidence" in your life has been a little light lately, don't despair. The wonderful thing about walking with God is that His mercies are new every morning. You can start building a new "case" today.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your grace that covers me when I fall short. I ask that You help me live a life that leaves a trail of evidence. Let my patience, my generosity, and my love be so evident that if I were accused of following You, the verdict would be immediate: Guilty. Let my life point clearly back to You. Amen.
