How to Be a Real Christian

Christianity is estimated by census figures, surveys, etc., to be the world’s leading religion in terms of population numbers, with more than two billion, perhaps as many as two and a half billion, who identify themselves as Christians. Among those claiming to be Christian are represented a wide assortment of beliefs and practices that are often contradictory not only to each other, but are often exactly the opposite of what Jesus Christ himself believed, taught and practiced. One dictionary definition of a Christian is one who professes belief in Jesus as Christ. Is a Christian just anyone who claims to be a Christian? If not, exactly what does it mean, from the standpoint of Scripture, to be a Christian? What makes one a Christian in God’s sight?

That is the subject the message, “How to Be a Real Christian.” In it are discussed specific steps necessary to becoming or remaining a Christian, as God’s word defines a true Christian.

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Copyright © 2025 by Rod Reynolds

Unless otherwise noted Scripture taken from the New King James VersionTM
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission.

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God’s Law is a Blessing

The world as a whole is groping in darkness and blindness for a path to happiness, peace, safety and life. In the world many don’t realize they can’t see. They don’t realize they are blind and walking in darkness. They think they are walking in light and that they know the path to a better, fuller, happier life. Yet, they keep falling into pits. They keep stumbling into snares. And the result is a world full of unhappiness, misery, suffering and death.

At the same time they have nothing but contempt and scorn for the light that would show them the true path and lead them to safety and happiness. They, oddly enough, don’t regard the light as a blessing, but rather as a curse. How about you. Do you know what is the true light? And do you regard it as a blessing or a curse?

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Purity of Heart

The pure of heart will see God (Matthew 5:8). But our hearts are by nature corrupted by the leaven of sin (Romans 7:14; 8:7). The Feast of Unleavened Bread pictures the removal of the spiritual leaven that corrupts us, so  we can have pure hearts. How is that accomplished? How can you have a pure heart, so you can see God?

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Principles of Cleanliness

COG Messenger · Principles of Cleanliness

You’ve probably heard it said, “Cleanliness is next to godliness.” Although reputed to be an ancient saying rooted in Hebrew literature, the phrase “cleanliness is next to godliness” is not in the Bible. However, the principle of cleanliness is found throughout the Bible and is linked with “godliness,” or being holy. Words relating to cleanliness or it’s opposite, uncleanness, are found hundreds of times throughout the Scriptures.

Cleanliness, then, is a concept very important to God, and integral to the life of a Christian. In this message, explore with us the concept of cleanliness, and how it relates to our lives both physically and spiritually.

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Unlocking the Mystery of Mankind’s Destiny

As human beings our lives are largely consumed by those things that we think are important at any given time. In reality, however, often those things we think are so important are of fleeting significance, and will soon be forgotten. Those things that truly are important, however, and that are of lasting significance, are commonly given scant attention. The true destiny God desires for human beings is not only a subject about which most people know virtually nothing, but it’s also a subject to which most people give little thought or concern.

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