What does it really mean to be a Christian? In today’s world, the word “Christian” gets used a lot—but often in ways that miss the depth and truth of what Scripture actually says. It’s more than just a label, a cultural identity, or a routine of attending church. Being a Christian means living a transformed life through Jesus Christ. In Episode 141 of The Radiant Mission Podcast, we dig into what the Bible teaches about following Jesus and what true Christianity looks like.
1. A Christian Believes in Jesus — and Follows Him
The foundation of Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The term “Christian” literally means “follower of Christ.” This means more than simply believing that God exists. It means trusting Jesus as Lord and Savior, believing He died for your sins, and choosing to follow Him. Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Being a Christian isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. It’s about surrendering your life to Jesus and letting Him lead.
2. A Christian Has Been Born Again
In John 3:3, Jesus tells Nicodemus, “Truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” This isn’t a metaphor. It’s a spiritual truth. When someone becomes a Christian, they are made new. The old life is gone, and a new life has begun. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This transformation isn’t just external—it starts in the heart. Christianity is not behavior modification; it’s soul-level change.
3. A Christian Repents of Sin and Pursues Holiness
True faith leads to real change. Acts 3:19 tells us, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out.” Repentance is more than feeling guilty. It’s a deliberate choice to turn away from sin and walk toward God. While Christians are not perfect, they should not remain comfortable in sin. God calls us to holiness—not out of legalism, but out of love. Grace is not a license to sin; it is the power to live in freedom.
4. A Christian Walks by the Spirit, Not the Flesh
When we put our faith in Jesus, we receive the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 says, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, strengthens, and empowers us to live godly lives. Walking in the Spirit means relying on God’s wisdom instead of your own. It means surrendering to God daily and letting Him shape your thoughts, actions, and desires.
5. A Christian Belongs to the Body of Christ
Christianity isn’t meant to be lived alone. 1 Corinthians 12:27 says, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Believers are called to community—for encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth. Being part of a local church helps us grow in faith and serve others with the gifts God has given us. It’s not about checking a box; it’s about belonging to a family.
6. A Christian Bears Fruit
Jesus said in Matthew 7:16, “By their fruit you will recognize them.” A Christian’s life should show evidence of transformation. This includes the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). While we are not saved by works, we are saved for good works (Ephesians 2:10). Our actions, attitudes, and relationships should reflect the character of Christ.
What Being a Christian Is NOT
It’s important to recognize that being a Christian is not about being “religious.” It’s not about how often you go to church, how many Bible verses you’ve memorized, or what your family believes. You can go through the motions and still not know Jesus. In fact, Jesus warned that many would claim to know Him but be turned away (Matthew 7:21–23). True Christianity is about a relationship, not ritual. It’s about transformation, not tradition.
How to Know If You’re Truly a Christian
Romans 10:9 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Have you put your trust in Jesus? Have you been born again? Are you growing in holiness, walking by the Spirit, and bearing fruit? These are the markers of genuine faith. Christianity is not a checkbox; it’s a lifelong journey of surrender and transformation.
Closing Encouragement
If you’ve been questioning what it really means to follow Jesus, know that God is not looking for perfect people—He’s looking for surrendered hearts. He invites you into a relationship that changes everything. And if you’re just beginning your journey, you are not alone. The Radiant Mission exists to walk with you as you grow in faith, truth, and the power of God’s Word.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I truly been born again, or have I just been around church culture?
- Is my faith producing fruit, or just words?
- What sin do I need to repent of and surrender to Jesus?
- Am I living like Jesus is my Lord — or just my helper?
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 141
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Thank you for listening to The Radiant Mission podcast! We are on a mission to encourage and inspire you on your walk with Christ and as you journey through life.
What does it mean to be a Christian? Discover the biblical definition of faith, transformation, and following Jesus with your whole life.
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