Do Christians really believe?

“Of course we do,” many will chorus. Think about it. If we really believe the Bible, shouldn’t our actions bear out that belief? If we really love God we will obey Him, right?

Do we? Let’s look at the verse: “And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15. Believing that, wouldn’t we go around telling people of the awful fate that awaits them without Jesus as Saviour? It’s what Jesus told us to do in Mark 16:15.

Yet, generally speaking, it doesn’t happen. Most Christians seem unconcerned as to the eternal destiny of those around them. Do believers really believe what is in the Bible? If so, why are so few spreading the gospel publicly? Is it because the pastor – who won’t witness himself - hasn’t urged them to go?

Every believer has an obligation to read and know what the Bible says – then act upon it, not rely on someone else to tell them what the Word says.

Taking this acting-on-belief theme a bit further, most of us know the second greatest commandment. Jesus said it: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39) We surely cannot love our neighbour if we won’t tell them the good news of the gospel which can save them. Jesus said: “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and not do as I say?” (Luke 6:46)

The truth is (by this writer's observation) so few tell the gospel nowadays, that many of the general public (and some Christians) think those who do are weird.

Some say the reason it isn’t done is fear of man. That being so, it means we doubt the Bible - which again is unbelief. 2 Timothy 1: 7 says that God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. God expects us to believe that. Fear does not come from Him.

In many places in the Bible we read of God’s promises as we venture out for Him. “Fear not, for I am with you. . . I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10) - “Submit yourselves therefore to God; resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) - “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) There are many more promises that God will back those who go forth, and this writer has found those promises to be true.

The neighbourhood barber made an interesting comment: “People say they believe in heaven, but no-one is in a hurry to get there.” Many in the Early Church had no fear of dying; they were confident they’d be in a better place.

If you, dear reader, are a whole-hearted, bold, fearless, full-on disciple for Jesus - obeying what He says, then praise God!

As for the rest of us, we have to begin taking God at His Word. First reading it, then believing it, then acting upon it.