One Minute Apologist "The Fi5th Gospel"预览

What’s Wrong With The World?

Though we were originally created in God’s image, God’s reflection in us was marred in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve sinned. And though His image wasn’t completely erased, it was defaced and tarnished. When you trusted in Christ, the Holy Spirit began a beautiful work of “image restoration” in you, masterfully remaking you to more accurately reflect God’s virtue. He began sculpting, forming, and transforming your character to better display Christ to the world. You became His image-bearer, and His ongoing work in your life distinguishes you from the world. This is a lifelong process, by the way, and one God is committed to completing.

Previously scarred by sin, you and I now have the opportunity to represent our Creator to His creation. So it makes sense that when nonbelievers see us as lifeless, unchanged, empty, or abrasive, they not only wonder why our lives look just like theirs, but they may also conclude our God doesn't even exist. At all. Plainly stated, some people resist Christ because…well, they know some Christians.

Insert sad face here.

None of us will ever perfectly represent God’s character. As long as we’re on this earth, we’ll have imperfections. And it’s these imperfections that some unbelievers are quick (and happy) to point out and expose. But there is value in listening to what others say, of taking an honest look in the mirror, of stepping into an unbeliever’s shoes to see what they perceive about Jesus and His bride. Think of it as a spiritual awareness-building exercise.

My intention isn’t to join the angry mob and engage in the popular sport of Christian bashing. There’s plenty of that out there. Nor do I offer some soft of an apology in hopes of persuading the world to finally like us. Rather, my intention is to honestly and responsibly reclaim God’s reputation in this world.

Becoming a true reflection of Christ to the world begins with a healthy does of humility and introspection. It starts by taking a look within and realizing our continued, desperate need for Christ. It includes admitting we all need a little image work and, in some cases, perhaps a lot.

Reflection

I think if we’re honest, none of us as Christians feel like the perfect model. That’s why we need to keep our eyes solely on Jesus. So we can shine more for Him. Think about it. It’s hard to reflect Him if we don’t reflect upon Him. God wants to show Jesus to the world—through YOU! How cool is that? We are His image bearers. Take a little time today to reflect on Jesus and ask God to help you add a little extra shine to this lost and dying world.