In my mind, it’s easy to recognize a true Christian and also a pseudo one. The pseudo Christian has a relative value system based on whatever they feel is right in the moment. The true Christian ascribes to the absolute values, spelled out by God for humanity, in the Holy Scriptures. Our various Christian denominations possess differing practices, but the one thing that should unite us is the Bible. A true Christian’s worldview includes taking a strong stand for Biblical values.
As a young Christian, I made the mistake of thinking that simply reading the Scriptures should be enough to cause true conversion. After all, that’s what happened with me. I began reading at the beginning of the Old Testament, in Genesis. I loved it, but started to feel bogged down somewhere in the book of Numbers and decided to head over to the New Testament. Once I had read through the four Gospels, I knew exactly what I needed to do. Confess my sinful nature, ask for the forgiveness offered through Christ Jesus, and make a firm decision to live in a way that would please God as outlined in the Holy Scriptures. Over time, I learned that not everyone responds to the Bible like I did, and there is a reason why.
You see, I felt drawn to enter the Scriptures. The Spirit of God was with me, enlightening me to the meaning of what I read. Faith is a cooperative experience with God. He initiates, we respond. If someone decides to survey the Bible out of curiosity or to fulfill the requirements for a course of study, they simply will not have the same experience.
He is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor recognizes him. But you recognize him, because he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:17
The Spirit of Truth brings truth home to the hearts of those people who willingly receive it by the Spirit’s leading. The written Word moves from the head to the heart. The Spirit becomes a guiding power, residing with the believer. The unbelieving world’s spiritual perception has not been activated.
But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. For he will not speak on his own authority, but will speak whatever he hears, and will tell you what is to come. John 16:13
The Holy Spirit will be the Christian’s guide into the fullness of truth. Often, God’s people find themselves in an unknown territory. During such times, the Spirit of Truth points the way to lead the faithful one. Hand in hand, step by step, imparting courage and strength for the journey onward. What a glorious promise! As the days of darkness and confusion increase, we have the power to resist the unraveling and make good decisions.
Do you call yourself a Christian? Is your worldview based on absolute values? Does the Holy Spirit live with you and guide you? Are you willing to take a stand in support of the Bible? If not, today might be a good time to seek God and invite the Spirit of Truth to abide with you.
Susi Robinson Rutz 