John 15: 4 - 8

I must admit that I don’t like to call myself a Christian. It’s not that it’s a “bad” label, or un-biblical one. It’s because I often times feel that when a non-Christian hears that name, it conjures up thoughts like: conservative, fundamentalist, Republican, anti-abortionist, close minded, intolerant, racist, bigot, homophobe etc…

By their definition, I am some of those things. And I’m not ashamed of that. But it is my desire in not using the term Christian, that I remove a barrier to our communication. So they hopefully won’t have any wrong perceptions about me before we even begin dialogue.

I prefer to say that I am a disciple or follower of Jesus. That is usually quite surprising to them! It takes away the negative connotations that the word Christian can possibly have. Instead of bringing to mind issues and where we stand on them, I feel this focuses more on Jesus, and will lead to healthy discussions about him and my relationship with him. The talk may tend to be more about Jesus, than about Christians.

So what does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? That is usually the first question asked! And the first step to a good discussion with someone.

A disciple is a student or a learner. This says to them that we don’t know it all! Everyday, we are in a process of growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus. Carrying out agendas, or supporting certain causes is not our main goal. Nurturing our relationship with Jesus is far more important.

A follower seeks to mimic the leader. As followers of Jesus, we seek to do those things that he did: Feed the poor, house the homeless, heal the sick, clothe the naked, forgive, seek peace, love each other. It means that we are committed to something involving actions, and not just a label.

Pray for wisdom in speaking with non-Christians about your disciple relationship with Christ, and to keep from issues which divide us.

BTW - # of times the word disciple is in the New Testament? 272
# of times the word Christian? 3

- Richard M.