How can you recognize a fellow Christian? What are the distinguishing marks of a sibling in Christ? Some claim that the Christian is known by what he says, others by what he believes, and still others by what he does? Who is right?
An argument could be made for three conclusions. A believer must confess with his mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in his heart that God raised him from the dead (Romans 10:9). So, what we say is essential to being a Christian. Also, our theology matters. What we understand God to be and to require makes an enormous difference in our lives. But the Christian also must act on what he says and turn his theology into deeds. What we say and believe comes to full fruition in what we do. So, the best method of discerning another maturing Christian is by what they do.
The Christian is known by what he does; what he hates, and what he loves. “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality” (Romans 12:9-13).
Deeds of love are marks of the Christian – some say it is the mark! Our love, for brothers and others, must be sincere. You can’t fake real love or mimic a genuine heart for other people. The Christian’s focus is on the needs and wounds of the other and not on themselves. They give their time and concern away to the needs of others freely and with great joy. But, to love well also means to hate fiercely. Christians do not compromise with evil, nor make treaties with wrong. We abhor what is evil and hold fast to what is good even if society disagrees.
Christians, readily and happily, show honor to others and freely praise them. Christians are whole and content in the love and provision of their God. It is not about them and their needs anymore. We can boldly honor and praise what is honorable and praiseworthy without taking any thought for ourselves. We are set free to work hard and serve sacrificially because we are resting in God as we labor for Him. Having God, we have hope even in difficult times. Our God is good to us all the time. We can pray at all times, and open our hearts and homes to others. Out of our fullness in Christ, our lives overflow in loving actions toward others. That is the mark of the Christian. And it develops, not by focusing on our good deeds, but rather on Christ, and the completeness of his love. We enter into the vast love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord and carry others along in our wake. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). So, find someone to love and do it well; for Christ is working through you.