I believe one of the handicaps in the growth of the American Church is that we’ve defined our Christian faith by what we don’t do, rather than what we are called to do.
How many times have you heard a message that started with “Christians shouldn’t” that is followed by admonitions and commands against the sins of our flesh?
Certainly Christians are called to flea immorality, tell the truth, honor marriage, do business with integrity, give to those in need, and volunteer to serve in helping others… but that’s not our main goal in life.
I know unbelievers who qualify as outstanding citizens and very moral people because they follow that list of rights and wrongs. Hindus serve. Muslims give. Atheists honor their marriage.
For the Christian walking with God, there are several unique distinctions rooted in the heart and a specific calling that sets us apart… glorifying God in our every action.
The motivation of the heart is a huge distinguisher when two people follow the same list of dos and don’ts. Yes, both the unbeliever and the believer can adhere to a moral code, but the “why” behind their deeds separates them.
Unbelievers operate for self. Even good works are centered on how it will benefit them because the actions are founded on the belief that they’ll reap what they sow.
In contrast, the Christ follower does everything in “word and deed” for the name of Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:17). They act to bring honor and glory to God, even if that means responding to great suffering in a manner that brings Him glory.
In Psalm 42, God is mentioned 13 times, Savior is mentioned twice, and Lord is mentioned once. All conduct and choices of the Psalmist are focused on God’s glory, greatness, and trust.
Life in Christ is all about God’s glory. Life outside of Christ is all about man’s glory.
Most will agree that the “why” behind our actions speaks louder than the action itself. The Apostle Paul even addresses this issue when he talked about the person who preached the gospel motivated by selfish ambition (Philippians 1:15-18).
Our Lord looks at the heart. He also grows our desire to be abandoned to Him in the heart. This is why unbelievers—no matter the good works they do—can’t know our Lord and Savior apart from new birth.
So go tell all those good people—maybe even in churches—how they can know the living God… they must be born again (John 3:3).