Who Is a Christian?
Text: “Ye shall know them by their fruits. “ – Matthew 7:16 A man once claimed to follow Jesus Christ, attending church regularly with high capacity to speak in tongues
Text: “Ye shall know them by their fruits. “ - Matthew 7:16
- By Henry O. Adelegan
A man once claimed to follow Jesus Christ, attending church regularly with high capacity to speak in tongues and quoting Scripture with ease. Yet in his dealings with neighbors, he cheated, gossiped, and showed no mercy to the weak. Another man quietly served the poor, forgave offenses, and lived with integrity, though he rarely spoke of his faith. Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:16 cut through mere appearances: “Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?”
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Being a Christian is more than attendance, rituals, or outward display of devotion. It is the visible expression of an inward transformation. Faith without evidence in character, conduct, and compassion is incomplete. The fruit of a believer’s life—love, patience, kindness, and righteousness—demonstrates the reality of Christ within. This Lenten season challenges us to reflect on what our lives are producing.
The first mark of a true Christian is love. John 13:35 reminds us, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Love is not sentiment or words alone; it is action. It is feeding the hungry, forgiving the offender, comforting the broken, and standing for justice. Without love, faith becomes hollow, no matter how faithful the rituals.
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Second, obedience distinguishes the Christian. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Obedience is not legalism; it is a willing surrender to God’s will. It manifests in honesty in business, integrity in relationships, and faithfulness in responsibilities. The Christian’s fruit reflects consistent alignment with God’s Word.
Third, humility characterizes a Christian. Philippians 2:3–4 urges believers to “esteem others better than themselves” and to “look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” True faith resists pride, seeks reconciliation, and values service over recognition. The humble heart bears fruit even in unseen places.
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Fourth, perseverance in trials shows authentic Christianity. James 1:12 states, “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life.” Trials reveal the depth of faith. A believer who clings to Christ under pressure, maintains integrity, and continues in prayer exhibits the fruit of the Spirit.
Fifth, the Christian demonstrates generosity and mercy. Proverbs 19:17 teaches, “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD.” Compassionate action toward the needy reflects the heart of God. Faith that cannot be expressed in tangible goodness is incomplete.
Finally, spiritual discernment is evidence of a genuine Christian. 1 John 4:1 warns, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” A Christian walks not in blind imitation but in alignment with truth, evaluating words, deeds, and teachings against Scripture.
I charge you during Lenten season to please examine the fruit of your life. Are you producing love, obedience, humility, perseverance, mercy, and discernment? Remember, Christianity is not measured by attendance, titles, or outward performance—it is known by the life you live. Let your faith bear fruit that cannot be ignored, reflecting Christ in every aspect of your life. May you be a Christian in deed bearing good fruits and not through your church association, titles or works alone in the name of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, help us to bear the fruit of genuine faith, that our lives may reveal Your presence, glorify Your name, and draw others to You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
