To the ‘Unsaved Christian’

Not long ago, I read a book entitled, “The Unsaved Christian.” I highly recommend it to you. The title itself is a misnomer, and intentionally so. The author, Dean Inserra, lists numerous popular misconceptions about what it means to be a Christian. The writer is spot-on accurate in asserting the disconcerting truth that within our own families, churches, and in the Conservative South at large; there are many, many folks who ‘think’ they are Christians, but have never truly been born-again. While this fallacy is not limited to the Bible Belt, it is certainly prevalent here. Within the minds of thousands of “good ol’ boys” right here in central Georgia, exists this well-ingrained error that suggests we are Christians because of our heritage or culture. Sadly, far too many people believe they are right with God and have a right standing with God, yet they have never truly been saved. In fact, it is even possible, some of you reading this article would fall into this category. I don’t write these words in an accusatory tone, but with a true concern for your soul. So lovingly, but boldly I will reiterate my statement; it is likely someone reading this article, may in fact be an “unsaved Christian” … hence not a Christian at all.  

Perhaps you think I am being too judgmental? Maybe you think I am mistaken? Maybe you reject the author’s premise? If so, let me ask, what are you (or your loved one) trusting in, to inherit eternal life? That is something to ask yourself and them. A Christian shouldn’t mind someone questioning their testimony or having their faith challenged. Instead, a true disciple of Jesus understands the importance of making sure our hearts are right with God! The Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 13:5, that we should “examine ourselves to determine whether we are in the faith.” 2 Peter 1:10 states, “make you calling and election sure.” Biblically speaking, there is nothing of any greater value that you could do right now, than to make sure you are indeed a born-again follower of Jesus Christ. Don’t deceive yourself, and don’t be deceived. Your soul is of far too great a value, to be wrong about this. 

Whether you realize it or not, even down here in the buckle of the Bible belt, there is a fundamental misunderstanding of what it means to be saved. In the book, Inserra addresses the rampant ideology of what he terms, “Cultural Christianity.” The best way to briefly explain this would be to ask a series of questions. Do you think you are a Christian, because you are a staunch conservative or hold to traditional American values? Maybe you love to hear the preacher rail against liberal politics? Perhaps you think you are a Christian because you grew up in church? Or because your parents are Christians? Maybe you believe in “God and Country” and stand with your hand over your heart during the Pledge of Allegiance? But friends, you are not a Christian because you are a gun-toting, Republican-voting, flag-waving patriot! Unfortunately, all that ideology produces are moral theists who think God and Country are synonymous entities and standing for the Anthem and kneeling at the cross are mutually redemptive. Folks, when the Bible and the Constitution are unequally yoked together, the public gets a skewed view of what it truly means to be a Christian.  

Before I close, allow me to address what I believe to be the single greatest reason there are so many “unsaved Christians.” The primary cause for this lack of clarity as to what it means to be a Christian can be summed up in a few words; poor theology and poor practice. Not only is the blurring of Christianity and Conservatism an issue, so is bad doctrine and pulpit manipulation. It would be impossible to overstate the eternal harm easy-believism and unscriptural practices have done to countless souls. Allow me to explain what I mean. There is far more to conversion than repeating a prayer, signing the back of a tract, kneeling at an altar, or having an emotional experience. The largest block of “unsaved Christians” (in my opinion) come from false professions of faith. From those men and women, boys and girls, who did what the preacher told them to do, but never truly had a life-changing encounter with Christ.  

I know what I am about to write will not be popular, but frankly, when dealing with the souls of men, clarity and boldness is essential. Regardless of what men may say, nowhere does the Bible teach what is commonly called, “the sinner’s prayer.” Furthermore, there is not one single example anywhere in all of Holy Writ of this method of coercion being employed. Folks, just because you slipped your hand up when every head was bowed and every eye closed, doesn’t necessarily mean you are saved. Too many people have repeated a prayer, but never truly repented of their sins! Note my words carefully, God sometimes saves sinners when men employ these extra-Scriptural practices, but God saves His children in spite of them, and not because of them.  

Don’t get me wrong, I want to see people saved. I pray that God uses His word to convert sinners. But a zeal for souls doesn’t justify over-eager evangelists utilizing gospel gimmicks. There are far too many people, who wrongly think they are Christians because they had an emotional experience at a funeral, or raised their hand as a child at VBS; but will reluctantly admit it never truly made a change in them.

So again, in what or in whom, have you placed your hope for heaven? If you are trusting in anything other than the finished work of Jesus Christ, you are not a Christian. Even if you think you are. Christ must dwell in you, and you in Him. I implore you, examine your own soul. And buy, read, and give a copy of “The Unsaved Christian” to someone who you are concerned might fit that title.