WHO A CHRISTIAN IS NOT?
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 7:21-23
Supporting Texts: Titus 1:16, 2 Timothy 3:5, James 2:19-20, Matthew 15:8, 1 John 2:4-6
INTRODUCTION:
In a world where the term “Christian” is loosely used, there is a great need to define not only who a Christian is—but also who a Christian is not. Many bear the label “Christian” yet live lives that contradict the teachings and example of Christ. Jesus Himself warned that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father.
Being a Christian is more than attending church, wearing a cross, or knowing Christian phrases. It is more than being born into a Christian family or doing good deeds. A Christian is defined by faith in Christ, obedience to His Word, and a transformed life through the Holy Spirit.
To walk in true discipleship, we must be clear about what Christianity is not. This study helps us examine and avoid the false assumptions and appearances that can deceive both ourselves and others.
1. A CHRISTIAN IS NOT MERELY A CHURCHGOER
a) Going to Church Does Not Equal Salvation (Matthew 7:21–23)
Jesus warned that many who claim to serve Him will be rejected if they lack obedience and relationship.
b) Attendance Without Transformation is Deception (James 1:22–24)
Hearing the Word without living it makes us self-deceived.
c) The Pharisees Went to the Synagogue but Missed Christ (Matthew 23:27–28)
Outward religion does not guarantee inward regeneration.
d) Church Membership Does Not Replace Personal Relationship (John 3:3)
Without being born again, one cannot see the Kingdom of God.
Biblical Example: The rich young ruler followed religious practices, but he lacked true surrender to Christ (Matthew 19:16–22).
2. A CHRISTIAN IS NOT JUST A MORALLY GOOD PERSON
a) Good Works Alone Cannot Save (Ephesians 2:8–9)
Salvation is by grace through faith, not by human effort.
b) Many Good People Still Reject Christ (Romans 3:23)
All have sinned and fall short of God's glory—morality is not holiness.
c) Morality Without Christ is Still Lostness (Titus 1:16)
They claim to know God but deny Him by their actions.
d) Righteousness Comes by Faith, Not Deeds (Philippians 3:9)
A Christian is justified by Christ’s righteousness, not their own.
Biblical Example: Cornelius was a devout and generous man, but he still needed the gospel (Acts 10:1–6).
3. A CHRISTIAN IS NOT SOMEONE WHO KNOWS ABOUT GOD BUT DOESN’T KNOW HIM
a) Head Knowledge is Not Heart Transformation (James 2:19)
Even demons believe in God—and tremble!
b) True Christians Have a Living Relationship with Jesus (John 17:3)
Eternal life is found in knowing Christ personally.
c) Knowing about God is Not the Same as Walking with Him (1 John 2:4–6)
To know Him is to obey Him.
d) Relationship with God Requires Intimacy and Surrender (John 15:5)
Without abiding in Christ, we can do nothing.
Biblical Example: Saul of Tarsus was zealous for God without knowing Christ until his encounter on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–6).
4. A CHRISTIAN IS NOT ONE WHO LIVES IN WILLFUL SIN
a) Grace is Not a License to Sin (Romans 6:1–2)
True believers do not continue in sin deliberately.
b) A Christian Cannot Practise Sin as a Lifestyle (1 John 3:9)
Those born of God cannot continue in habitual sin.
c) Fruitless Profession is Hypocrisy (Matthew 7:16–20)
By their fruits, you shall know them.
d) Sin Reigns Where Christ is Absent (Galatians 5:24)
True Christians crucify the flesh and its desires.
Biblical Example: Ananias and Sapphira pretended to be faithful believers but were judged for deceit and hypocrisy (Acts 5:1–11).
CONCLUSION:
A Christian is not just a churchgoer, a moral person, a Bible-knowledge holder, or someone who merely professes Christ. True Christianity is a life transformed by grace, governed by truth, and lived in obedience to God through Jesus Christ. Anything less is counterfeit.
As we examine ourselves, let us be sure we are not walking in an appearance of godliness while denying its power. The Christian life is not just a name—it is a call to die to self and live in Christ.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every false identity of Christianity.
2. Father, let my life reflect genuine faith and obedience.
3. Help me to know You personally and walk with You daily.
4. Cleanse me from every religious hypocrisy and outward show.
5. Let my Christianity be marked by truth, love, and holiness.
