The IDEAL Christian will not claim to be the only one who has knowledge, revelation, or understanding of a particular scripture or doctrine. No prophecy of the scripture is of private interpretation. (2 Peter 1:20)
The IDEAL Christian.....
...will be following Christ - doing what He did as a way of life.
...will not be wresting the scriptures to make them say what he/she wants them to say to support their doctrine, belief, or way of worship.
...will not become re-entangled in the pollutions of the world. (2 Peter
2:20-22)
This may include activities directly addressed in the Bible as well as behavior
in general. No human is perfect - so we can't expect perfection in ourselves or
others. But we should desire to be perfect, to become perfect. (Matthew 5:48)
A tree (or person) is known by it's fruit. (Matthew 12:33)
...is not following evil, but good (3 John 1:11)
Husbands love their wives as Christ loves
the church. (Eph 5:25)
...keeps themselves in the love of God. (Jude 1:20-23) ...is not a respecter of persons, but is peaceable, gentle, easily entreated, and full of mercy and good work with wisdom from above. (James 2:1; 3:17-18; Romans 2:11)
...bridles his or her tongue. The tongue can get us into trouble. (James 1:27; 3:5-10)
...is sensitive to the problems and trials of others. He or she is compassionate, considerate, and empathetic. They are humble, patient, pure of heart, close to God, praying for the sick. (James 4:8-11,17; 5:7-8, 12, 15-16)
...believes in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. (Romans
3:24-28)
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.
(John 3:16-17) He paid the price for everyone.
(Hebrews 9:11-17)
...has faith by also having works. (James 2:17-20) Notice that works do not save anyone. Instead works support and prove our faith.
...is a doer, and not just one who hears. (James 1:22)
...performs pure religion. *James 1:26-27)
...believes in all that is good. (Philippians 4:7-9)
All things are possible to him who believes. (Mark 9:23-24) This does not mean we can think something into existence. The example indicates that God would give the faith - help the man's unbelief.
*What are the "works" and "pure
religion" that we should be performing in this life?
By
looking at Jesus' example, we find He was teaching, encouraging,
and healing. These are the things we should be doing (except
healing - which is God's area of responsibility), but we can pray
for those who are sick and help them in whatever way we are able.
(John 6:6-30; Mark 13; Mark 6:7-13, 34-44; 8:1-9)
©1997
Last updated 03/11/05
