6. Knowledgeable about the Bible.
When I worked in youth ministry, I traveled a lot. Before loading the bus, everyone had an opportunity to pull the trigger on shotgun. But, to be honest, I only wanted one person to call it. Why? I had a Bible trivia app and no one else competed with me.
I could name every judge and pair people with weird, random facts. I knew the Bible.
But this isn’t surprising, right? Faithful Christians know their Bible.
Well…that depends.
The apostle Paul says knowledge puffs up but loves builds up. My Christian journey proves this verse true.
Knowledge alone is quite dangerous, actually.
I look back on my Bible trivia days. While I rarely lost, my reward for winning was a crown of pride.
Jesus flipped the model of righteousness and holy living. Faithful Christians might know their Bible. But if your Bible knowledge doesn’t compel you to serve your neighbor, you’re missing something. Great students are great servants.
7. Promptness
While we’re here, let’s include other members of the squad. Organized. Efficient. Go-getter. #squad
Granted, being on time can show concern and respect for the person you’re meeting.
But promptness isn’t a Christian virtue. If Jesus lived in modern-day America, I’m not sure he would appreciate our infatuation with “to-do lists” and punctuality. We’re talking about a guy who arrived late to scheduled appointments, and on one occasion, his “lateness” resulted in a man’s death, Lazarus. Beggars and tax collectors distracted Jesus. He changed plans without warning.
Promptness might be good practice in America, but it isn’t a Christian virtue.
I’ve heard passive-aggressive comments about being late for worship all my life. I’ve made them myself. While punctuality is good practice in America, it’s not a barometer for godliness or devotion to God.
8. Expressive and emotional
I’m an emotional guy. I cry often. Don’t judge me. I also lift my hands and move around when I worship.
Real Christians are expressive, I used to think. But spending time with Christians who aren’t expressive revealed something different, a deep love for Jesus. On the flip side, I’ve spent time with expressive, emotional Christians and found them to be bored and dry. Expressive, emotional behavior can reveal passion, but not necessarily.
Let’s be careful not to make our perspective the perspective. God is infinitely creative. So are His people.
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It’s your turn.
What Christian values are not really Christian?
I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!
