Scripture says that when we are born again, the Holy Spirit enters our lives and, among other things, convicts us of sin:
“And when he [the Holy Spirit] comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” (John 16:8 ESV)
RESPONSE: Actually, the verse in Hebrews talks about the pleasures of sin “for a season.” In other words, sin has hangovers. It is pleasurable in the moment (otherwise, why would I do it?). But after the moment of sin, it is sickening.
So, I’d rather have long-term joy and satisfaction over short-term pleasure.
- A revengeful act that landed me in hot water, or even in prison, would not be a good trade off.
- A tryst that ruined my marriage and life would not be a good trade off.
- Cheating on my taxes might give me a little tax break, but getting caught wouldn’t be worth it.
So while sometimes I think it would be fun to indulge, I remind myself that that is really not what I want at all.
3. I get embarrassed at the behavior of “Christians.”
At least weekly, I hear about a Christian who has defied Christ, done something dumb, and brought shame and embarrassment to all who follow Jesus.
Each time, I just want to crawl into a hole. Each time, I think about those who will follow the terrible example of the backslider.
These people ignore Jesus’ severe warning: “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” (Mark 9:42 ESV)
RESPONSE: My guess is that often those who call themselves Christians but who do terrible things are not real Christians.
Anyone can call himself or herself a Christian, but it is their walk and actions that prove them one. (See Matthew 7:21.)
Furthermore, people (even other Christians) love to point out the deficiencies of believers. That’s partly because good news gets very little attention and coverage. Disaster, death, scandal are what attract and dominate people’s attention.
But when we look at the immense good done by Christ followers, it is mind boggling: hospitals, feeding the hungry, orphanages, skid row missions, and on and on.
Yes, true believers sometimes blow it. King David is a prime example of a believer who committed terrible sin. In those cases, we can only say we are “not perfect, just forgiven.”
Question: What do you not like about being a Christian? Please leave a comment below.
