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The Complete Christian: Seven Traits of a Mature Christ Follower

    Every Christian should ask this question: What makes me a Christian? And, if I am a Christian, what should define my “being” as a Christian? If Christians do not know their reason for being, they will not be all they can be in Christ Jesus. Christians have to understand that they can only define themselves based upon biblical standards. This is because culture and Christianity have varying viewpoints about what “being” a Christian is.

    The Christian, then, has to learn to define their being in terms of their relationship with Christ (righteousness and character), rather than by the culture (which focuses mostly on external traits -strength, money, stature, beauty, family, etc).

    Before going further, the Christian should understand: 1) A Christian’s being is not based upon external characteristics, but internal traits. 2) The Definition of a Christian is found in the image of God. 3) Culture (Secular or Church) cannot define a Christian.

With this understanding, we want to offer seven primary qualities or traits of the Christian’s being.

The Christian reflects Christ’s image. As Adam was made in God’s image, the Christian has to be made in Christ’s image. They will reflect the characteristics of Christ. (Romans 8:29)

The Christian is full of wisdom and integrity. The Christian will not be a fool. They will not lack spiritual wisdom and insight. They will be full of faith like the servants chosen in Acts. (Acts 6:3a)

The Christian is an example of the believers in this world. The Christian will set an example that others can follow. They will represent the Christian faith well to the world. (I Timothy 4:12b)

The Christian's home will be characterized by the worship of God. One of the qualifications for a bishop was to have his home in order. Christians will strive to have their homes in order to reflect the faith.

The Christian follows the example that Christ set. Paul exhorted the Corinthians to follow his example as he followed Christ. This will be the same desire of the Christian. They will only want others to emulate them as they follow Christ. (I Corinthians 11:1)

The Christian is a person of prayer. In the Old Testament, servants of God offered the most powerful prayers. Prayer is a foundational element to the Christian experience. (Ephesians 6:18)

The Christian is a student of the Word of God. The Christian will have a desire to know God’s word. They will not shun corporate and personal study of the Word. They will also understand the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith. (II Timothy 2:15)

What is your reason for being as a Christian? Do you know how to define yourself? When you understand who you are internally, you will be able to overcome every internal struggle and live in victory.

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