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How to Be a Christian Only
Vol. 6, No. 11 — Nov 2004
Page
9
[Bible Light. July-August, 2004:1, 7.] There is no greater plea in the world today than that one which invites people to be “Christians only.” The name “Christian” includes all that is needed, or should be desired, for spiritual appellation. Indeed, a real, genuine “follower of Christ” should be content in worshipping God as a “Christian only.” Anything less than a Christian is far too short, and anything that goes beyond, transgresses heaven’s testimony for humankind. But the important question is: “How may one be a Christian and nothing else?” Obey the Doctrine of Christ and No More To obey the Gospel as revealed in the New Testament means: Believe in Jesus Christ as the crucified, buried and risen Lord (John 8:28; Romans 10:10). Repent of past or alien sins (Acts 2:38; 17:30). Confess your faith in Christ (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:10; Acts 8:37). Be baptized (immersed) for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:15; Romans 6:4; Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21). Upon such obedience, we have the assurance that God will add us to “the church” (Acts 2:47). And we further know that such disciples were called “Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:26). Wear the Name of Christ and No Other The fact that God promised a “new name” (Isaiah 62:2), and that he gave it “first in Antioch,” should be ample evidence of the all-sufficiency of that name. To add to it, to put a handle on it, to weaken it by adding some human name, is but