Webster’s Definition of ‘Christian’:‘One who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ.’
Original Greek Definition of ‘Christian’: ‘A follower of Christ’
Throughout history many have claimed to be followers of Christ, but in actuality are following some religious system—which claims to be the Christian faith. There is a big difference.
Let me give some simple examples:
Jesus said, ‘Love your enemies.’(Luke 6.27) He also said, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’(Matthew 22.39) One would think, the logic of ‘love’ is clear. When we ‘love’ our children, we wouldn’t hurt our child.
Now go back into history and study one of the first organized religious systems. They were a brand of Catholics, a Coptic Orthodox church, who literally tore into their enemies. An example being, Hypatia, who they stoned and dragged through the streets.
Hypatia was a mathematician, philosopher, teacher, and astronomer, around 415 AD in Alexandria, Egypt. A fanatical “Christian” mob attacked and killed her.
Many would say: ‘ah, but that is far from the western mindset of the Christian faith…’ If so, why then do many protestant believers, still follow John Calvin’s doctrines, (Predestination & Election) from the the 1500’s? Calvin is not only famous for his doctrines, which many Baptists still follow; but Calvin is also famous for burning another follower of Christ at the stake. The man’s name was Servetus. Calvin’s problem is they differed on doctrine.
Back to my point, it’s easy to say, ‘I am a Christian,’ but many “Christian” lives are participating in religious systems which are immersed in greed, politics, warfare, legal fights, etc, And they ignore Christ’s simple words: “Love your enemies; Love your neighbor.”
That said, even the most genuine Christian will not Claim perfection. We are all in a process of development; and we are constantly learning. However, a real “Christian,’ will follow the truth where they find it, and grow to love and not hate.
And yes, a non-believer will still find fault with those who are genuine Christians; but this is usually a result of differences of opinions. Christian, or not, a person who will not follow Christ’s simple words, will not follow truth where they find it usually cannot tolerate those who have differing opinions.
Finally, even though many are doing the best they can, because we are all in a growth process, it is likely we will all fail at times. At these times we may undermine Christ’s example of loving one’s enemies. But be assured, since God loves His enemies, obviously He will be patient with those who fail. However, only God knows who are honestly attempting to follow Him, and those who are simply part of a cultural system of religion. This is why Jesus forbids His followers to judge others, and simply repeat His words and precepts.
Yes, non-believers do not understand Christianity, but neither do many "believers."