Seven Marks of a Christian
These "marks" aren't merely outward actions, but stem from a transformed heart and a life surrendered to God.
The Bible provides us with clear indicators of what it means to be a true follower of Christ. Let's explore seven key characteristics of a Christian:
1. Born Again (1 Peter 1:23)
"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God."
A Christian is first, someone who has experienced spiritual rebirth. This new birth happens when we repent of our sins and place our faith in Jesus Christ. It's a radical change, a spiritual awakening that sets us on a new path.
2. Salvation Not by Works (Ephesians 2:9)
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
We cannot earn our salvation through good deeds or religious rituals. It is a gift from God, received by faith in Jesus Christ. This understanding keeps us humble and reliant on God's grace.
3. Works as Evidence of Salvation (Titus 2:14)
"He gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good."
While good works don't save us, they are the natural outflow of a transformed life. True faith produces good fruit. Our actions should reflect the love and grace we have received in Christ.
4. Building on a Sure Foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11)
"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ."
A Christian builds their life on the solid rock of Jesus Christ. He is the cornerstone, the foundation of our faith. We rely on His teachings and examples to guide our lives.
5. Confessing Christ (Romans 10:10)
"For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved."
A Christian openly declares their faith in Jesus Christ. This confession is not merely intellectual assent, but a heartfelt declaration of loyalty and trust in Him.
6. Serving the Lord and Waiting for His Return (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10)
"For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath."
A Christian actively serves God and eagerly anticipates the return of Christ. This hope shapes our priorities and motivates us to live lives that honor Him.
7. Sharing the Message of Salvation (2 Corinthians 5:20)
"We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God."
A Christian shares the good news of salvation with others. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, extending His love and invitation to a world in need.
These seven marks are not exhaustive, but they provide a framework for understanding what it means to be a Christian. They are interconnected and flow from a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. As we grow in our faith, may these marks become increasingly evident in our lives.