“WILL THE REAL CHRISTIAN PLEASE STAND UP!”

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into Apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transformed himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into minister of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works” (II Corinthians 11:13-15).
In the last few years it has become the “in thing” for theological liberals and moral libertarians within the membership of mainline denominational churches to describe themselves as “evangelicals” and “born-again believers.” Heretofore these terms have designated only those who truly believe in a totally inspired and wholly inerrant Bible, and who actually, literally, faithfully are striving to live a holy life. Of course, such liberals have no intention of being faithful to the Bible – they just want to enjoy the fiction and the fashion of pretending to do so!
Labels do not make the man. A rose is still a rose no matter what you call it. So is a thorn bush! A theologian with a shallow, sham, and superficial view of Holy Scripture is as much a pagan as an idolater, no matter what he labels himself. A man or a woman who pursues an immoral life-style and practices secret sins (or open sins!), yet styling themselves “Christian”, are but playing a game of mirrors and shadows; they deceive no one; their judgment will not slumber for long! God is not mocked, nor is anyone else! “The solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His; and; Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity!” (II Timothy 2:19). Here is the “trademark” of the genuine Christian: He has a personal, loving, faithful relationship with the Christ of the Bible! And he is ever vigilant to keep himself unspotted from the sins of the world and the flesh!
Let Christians beware! “Evil men and imposters will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived” (II Timothy 3:13). Sort out the fake from the authentic! “Test the spirits, whether they are of God!” (I John 4:1). The Bible shows us how!
Larry Atkin, Preacher