Introduction

When I first became a Christian back in 2001, I changed my life for the better, of course, but also in a physical way. Not in terms of health, mind you, but from the materialistic mindset. That is to say, I started to “dress” like a Christian. I bought the slogan T-shirts, listened to “Christian” music, even considered buying the religious bumper stickers.

Prior to my baptism, I never considered myself “worthy” enough to wear such items. Then I learned that I shouldn’t wear that stuff at all. Kind of ironic in hindsight. Being a Christian is a lifestyle change not an attire change.

Oh, He must be a Christian!

The other day, at work, I was on the sales floor working freight when a customer came down my aisle. He was wearing the traditional “Faith Over Fear” T-shirt like so many others who claim to by a Christian.

Although I couldn’t read the verse that was on the shirt, it was most likely Joshua 1:9 which states, Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. (Joshua 1:9 KJV)

He was talking to a female and, although I didn’t hear the conversation, I distinctly heard him reference Isaiah 27:1-4. I’m sure other people around him, who might have been listening, or saw his shirt, would say, “He must be a Christian! He’s wearing the shirt and quoting scripture!” But does this make one a Christian?

What’s the Context?

As I proceeded to the next aisle, I immediately pulled out my phone and opened my bible app. Curiosity got the better of me and I had to see what the passage, he quoted, actually said…

In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea. In that day sing ye unto her, A vineyard of red wine. I the LORD do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day. Fury is not in me: who would set the briers and thorns against me in battle? I would go through them, I would burn them together. (Isaiah 27:1-4 KJV)

Again, not knowing what the conversation was about, and looking at this very passage, I can surmise that he might have been talking about verse 3 and the first part of verse 4. Together, they would read, I the LORD do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day. Fury is not in me. Just by isolating this portion, it gives you a “warm and fuzzy” feeling.

Regardless of the conversation, the context of the passage has to do with the restoration of Israel and is not for us today. Given that Isaiah was a prophet, many so-called Christians utilize his prophecies for life today. Although it sound like sage advice, one is taking it out of context and using it for everyday life.

It’s a Lifestyle, Not a Costume!

Much like a T-shirt, quoting random bible passages doesn’t prove that you are a true New Testament Christian. If you don’t know what the context is for the verse, or passage, you are quoting, you’re no better than the false prophets of old.

One can walk the walk and talk the talk, but you’re still in your sins. Jesus states, “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” (John 8:24) Many will claim that they believe in Jesus, but aren’t obedient to His word.

Again, Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) The apostle John confirms this as he wrote, For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. (1 John 5:3)

Overall, Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” (Matthew 7:21-23)

It’s easier to wear your faith than it is to live it. Most people put on, and take off, their faith on a regular basis. True Christians live their faith continuously.

Conclusion

As the apostle Peter wrote, Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:13-16)

Have the mindset of a Christian first (Col. 3:1-2), and live your life as one instead of putting on your religion like a set of clothes. As Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) You don’t need a T-shirt to prove you’re a Christian.