Being More Like Christ

Does our conduct resemble the Christ we name?

A saying often attributed to Gandhi contrasts admiration for Christ with disappointment in Christians. Its attribution needs care; the concern it raises is how our conduct reflects the Jesus we say we follow.

We do not need a famous person’s quotation to ask the uncomfortable question: do our neighbors experience more compassion, forgiveness, and humility because we call ourselves Christian?

Admiration for Jesus and disappointment in Christians can exist together. We can hear that disappointment without assuming the critic’s motives, and ask whether our response makes room for love and humility.

To truly follow in the footsteps of Christ means to love one another as He loved us. John 13:34 states, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." This commandment underscores the central importance of love in the life of a Christian. It is not enough to simply profess faith in Christ; one must actively demonstrate that faith through loving actions towards others.

Let the fruit be visible

Similarly, Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruits of the Spirit, which include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities should be evident in the life of a Christian, serving as a witness to the transformative power of faith in Christ. When Christians exhibit these fruits, they become reflections of Christ's love and character, drawing others to Him through their example.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, known as the "Love Chapter," the apostle Paul describes the characteristics of love: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the selfless and sacrificial nature of love, which should be the hallmark of a Christian's life.

One of the most well-known examples of living like Christ is found in the Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. In this story, Jesus teaches the importance of compassion and kindness towards all people, regardless of their background or status. The Samaritan, who stops to help a wounded stranger on the road, embodies the selfless love and care that Christ calls His followers to demonstrate towards others.

In the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7, Jesus delivers teachings on a wide range of topics, including love for enemies, prayer, and judging others. He emphasizes the need for humility, forgiveness, and mercy in our interactions with others, setting a high standard for ethical and moral behavior. By following these teachings, Christians can strive to align their lives more closely with the example set by Christ.

Give someone a reason to see the resemblance

Pick one place where your conduct is lagging behind your confession. Make the apology. Keep the promise. Offer the help. Following Christ is more than defending the label.

Faith, hope, and love in action through Christ and kindness. Raise a Hand. Build a Bridge. Find a local ministry and put what you believe into practice.