"We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands. The man who says, 'I know Him,' but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys His word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him; Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." 1 John 2:3-6 (NIV)
Although the particular audience was not identified, this general epistle written by the Apostle John, was a call to return to the fundamentals of their faith. His concern was with their obedience to God's commands.
It is easy to claim to be a Christian, especially today when there are no serious consequences beyond the effect on one's popularity. The challenge is to live like a Christian, not just saying that we are one. Avoiding or resisting the sinful temptations that we used to give in to. Holding our tongue instead of saying something hurtful. Demonstrating love for our fellow man when we are being shown something other than that. Sharing with others when we do not have very much ourselves. Being kind to someone even when we know that it is being mistaken for weakness. Telling the truth even when it makes us look bad when telling a lie would make us appear much better than actually we are. Speaking like our pastor is present when we are talking with our non-Christian friends. Taking the time, before we act or speak, to ask ourselves: "What would Christ do or say in this situation?" None of us is perfect, and we will never be, but we need to do a better job of walkng the Christian walk and not just talking the talk.
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