Being The Only Christian In The Group
Faithful without being obnoxious.
On living your faith among people who do not share it.
The big idea
Most people are argued toward Jesus by kindness long before they are argued there by words.
What does “Being The Only Christian In The Group” walk through?
Let Your Light Shine
Matthew 5:16 · KJV
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
In plain English
Live in a way that points people to God. Your actions can help others see his goodness.
Seen, Then Attributed
Jesus links visible goodness to God getting the credit. Not a lecture — a life people can watch and draw a conclusion from.
Clothed In Kindness
Colossians 3:12 · KJV
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
In plain English
God chose you and loves you. So put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience like clothes.
“Nobody has ever been shamed into loving Jesus.”
Quick To Listen
James 1:19 · KJV
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
In plain English
Listen first, speak carefully, and don’t rush into anger. This helps relationships stay healthy.
Listening Is Witness
Being the only believer in a room is not a debating position. It is usually a listening one, and listening earns the right to be heard later.
Boldness, When It Is Time
Acts 4:29 · KJV
And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
In plain English
Lord, listen to their threats, and give us courage to keep speaking your word.
Pray
Jesus, make me kind first and brave when it counts. Amen.
Write it down
Who in your life needs your kindness more than your argument?
Live it visibly
Be the reason someone reconsiders.
Which passages does this journey use?
4 passages, drawn from Matthew 5:16, Colossians 3:12, James 1:19, Acts 4:29. Every verse appears here in the King James text with a plain-English line beside it, so you can read it without a commentary open. Allow about 7 minutes for the whole thing, or 8 short sittings.
- Matthew 5:16
- Colossians 3:12
- James 1:19
- Acts 4:29
Read any of these in full on the complete KJV, or look the wording up independently at Blue Letter Bible.
More in Relationships
All Relationships →Choosing Your Circle
You become the room you stand in.
When A Friendship Ends
Grief nobody throws you a funeral for.
Loving Your Siblings
The people you did not choose.
When Home Is Hard
For anyone whose house is not a refuge.
Honoring Parents You Disagree With
Respect that is not agreement.
Dating With Intention
Choosing on purpose, not by drift.