Are Christians Real Christians if They Don’t Follow the Bible?
Introduction
The question of whether Christians can still be considered 'real' Christians if they don't follow the Bible is a pressing one. This article delves into the nature of Christian faith, the role of the Bible, and what constitutes a 'real' Christian.
Faith in Christ vs. Faith in the Bible
Some argue that true faith and devotion to Christ do not depend solely on following the Bible's commands. As one commentator points out:
"Scripture mentions that Jews were looking to their scriptures as if it had eternal life. He said even the laws of Moses spoke on his behalf. Why would that be different if gentiles looking in scriptures as if it had eternal life and not the Christ it speaks of."
Others argue that Christ, rather than the Bible, is the foundation of true faith. The assertion is that the Bible is a guide and resource for salvation and church history, but our ultimate faith rests in Christ. This is beautifully articulated in the quote:
"We don’t follow the Bible but Christ! The Scriptures are a wonderful source and resource concerning salvation and church history and, as a moral compass, invaluable...but our faith is not in the Bible but in Christ Jesus/God."
This does not diminish the importance of the Bible but reinterprets its role within the broader context of faith in Christ.
The Unity of the Church
The notion of the church as a unified body of believers, regardless of physical proximity, is a critical aspect of Christian doctrine. As one argues:
"The Church is a body of believers... whether present to each other or spread throughout the world we are one body The Church... and not even the fires of hell will prevail against it."
This unity is seen as a testament to the strength and durability of faith, further emphasizing the importance of Christ over mere adherence to the Bible.
The Analogy of the Dentist
An interesting analogy is used to illustrate the need for genuine adherence to religious teachings. Similar to how a dentist who fails to follow dental procedures would not be considered a real dentist:
"If Christians don’t follow the Bible are they still real Christians? It's the same question but with a different context. If a dentist does not follow the procedures and yet claims to be a dentist, does he deserve that title? The same logic applies to Christians.”
This analogy highlights the fragility of faith when not grounded in genuine adherence to the teachings that form the basis of that faith. It questions whether someone can truly claim the title of Christian if they do not follow the fundamental teachings that constitute Christianity.
The Decision Lynn Leave to God
The final point underscores a critical, though often overlooked, aspect of faith: personal responsibility. As one individual asserts:
"Is God crucified on the cross for our sins and died in our place? Did He shower us with judgment creating all religions on earth as a way for us to find path as to where He is? Look unto Him and he will save you, all the ends of the earth: For I am God, there is none else. There can be no justification for why God might bore fruit in one and not another... It is Lynn who doubts and Lynn who must decide based on his or her own actions and the words of scripture... If there is no good fruit produced in a person's life, then Lynn will be making a decision based on faith alone.”
This brings the discussion back to the individual's role in their faith. It challenges Christians to scrutinize their own actions and intentions rather than focusing solely on the actions or lack thereof of others.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the nature of true Christian faith goes beyond mere adherence to the Bible. It involves faith in Christ, the unity of the church, and personal responsibility in following the ethical and moral teachings contained within the Bible. The question of whether a Christian who does not follow the Bible can still be considered 'real' ultimately rests with the individual and their relationship with Christ and the principles He embodied.