| Behind The Mask |
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| Written by Reggie Byrum | |||
 Reading in 2 Corinthians this morning. Paul is warning the Corinthian believers about those who call themselves Christians but are really unbelievers disguised as "angels of light". Then he takes the Corinthian believers to the wood shed because they have "welcomed" (false Christians) them into their fellowship even though they taught a "different gospel" from the one that Paul preached.As I thought on this it suddenly dawned on me that perhaps - just perhaps - we too readily accept and embrace those who "call" themselves Christians, but inwardly they don't have a clue about the New Birth experience. I'm not saying that we should shun anyone. But for someone to approach you with a smile, shake your hand and say, "Hi, I'm a Christian" . . well, sorry - Paul is saying that is just not enough. I think God wants us to "probe". Ask the questions that would led you to believe they are what they say they are. You can do this in love, and in most cases, they won't even realize that you are verifying their Christianity. You have to ask the right questions and do it over time. One sample conversation may go, "You know, those (Muslims, Buddists, Jehovah Witnesses, etc), are really nice, sincere people who are committed to their beliefs and want to do good. Don't you think God will welcome them with open arms when they die?" The answer to the above question will tell you a lot. There are many such questions that will let you know beyond any doubt whether or not they are true "Christ Followers", or are merely hiding behind a Christian mask. The Bible teaches there is only ONE way to heaven - and that is through God's Son, Jesus Christ. You have to enter by way of the Cross. There is no other way. All others who try to enter another way, are as thieves and robbers. In a related point: Make sure "you" are not one of those hiding behind the mask. How do you know - beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you are a Christian? What took place in your life that totally changed you? How has your life been affected since you became a Christian? If someone was secretly filming your life and put you on trial, would there be enough evidence to convict you as a Christian? It's probably best to take stock of your own life, before we start looking at others. But once you have settled the fact in your own mind regarding your Christianity, then be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Don't take everything or everybody at face value. Ask the hard questions, and then if you realize they are not "saved" - be about your Father's business and lead them to the Lord, with love and compassion - not condemnation.
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