Following Jesus

So what are you? A Christian? Believer? Born-again? Evangelical? To me, all these terms are too ambiguous. They need clarification. 83% of adults in the U.S. would self-identify as Christian. But is that because they've but their faith in Christ or because if and when they go or went to church, it was a Christian one. Calling yourself a believer is easy, but doesn't really mean that you're saved, just that you believe Jesus is the Son of God. So does Satan and he's not saved. Call yourself Born-again and those who aren't don't really know what that means but think it means you're a Bible-thumper. Finally, the term Evangelical is used so much in the political realm, it's hard to distinguish it as a description of faith.

I'm starting to think that identifying yourself as a Follower of Jesus may be the best approach. Here's why.

1. It denotes action. We actively seeks Jesus out and want to do His will. We make our choices and order our life in a way that is pleasing to Him. We actively seek to remove sin from our life.
2. It implies trust. Obviously if we're following Jesus, we must trust Him. We're trusting Him with our life, our family, our happiness and provision. It means we've put our faith in Him.
3. It demands Lordship. Not only do we trust Him and want to follow Him, but it goes one step further. If we are a follower, then Jesus has authority in our life.
4. It shows relationship. It's not a "Follower of Christ". 'Christ' is a title, and may be appropriate at times, but not always. His name is Jesus and that's much more personal. I'm trying to stop using 'Christ' and speak to Him as 'Jesus'. It means that we have a relationship and He is accessible.
5. It reminds me to follow. Too many times we get caught up in our own lives. We can think as a Christian and try to determine the Christian thing to do. However, if we're a Follower of Jesus, it becomes obvious what we should do. Ask Him.
6. It leaves nothing in question. Unlike the other terms, this defines our relationship with Jesus very well. It defines the basics: faith, Lordship, action, submission, relationship. The core tenants of Biblical Christianity and the faith through which we are saved from our sin and death.