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Christians appear to be many, considering numerous church buildings and regular huge church gatherings in the cities, towns and villages in most parts of the world.
We thank God that many identify with the Christian Faith. It is beautiful and impressive. However, the question is, are all the folks who attend church meetings true Christians? Are we all really born again and indwelled by the Holy Spirit? Do all of us have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Do we sincerely know Him, and does He know all of us?
This article is not intended to judge anyone. It only attempts to state the fact, making references to biblical passages to prove it. When we diligently study the Bible, we realise that only a few people do the will of God, leading to their salvation.
Only eight people in the days of Noah were saved when God judged the ancient world with floods (Genesis 7:13). Similarly, only a remnant of 10 people were saved when God judged Sodom and Gomorrah for their sins (18:32).
Now under the new covenant in Christ Jesus, two passages of the Bible hint that few believers are true Christians. And they are the ones that may be saved on the last day.
The notion that few church people are true Christians and they genuinely follow Jesus is seen in their choice, preference, regard, and honour of the Word of Christ over His miracles, signs and wonders.
When Christ Jesus walked the earth, crowds, numbering thousands followed Him for only healing, exorcism and food. However, His true disciples, numbering 12 led by Peter wanted something greater. They maintained a close relationship with Christ, knowing that He had words that offered eternal life (John 6:67-69).
Many people who constitute crowds are mere miracle seekers. They believe in God for things not for Christ Jesus. I mean they follow Jesus for His provisions not for a personal relationship with Him in order to grow in Him.
Moreover, only few believers find the narrow gate and the way that is hard that leads to life. However, the greater majority of believers enter the gate that is wide, though most of them know that it leads to destruction .
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Clearly, you can see that true Christians are small in number compared to false Christians who are mere church goers and miracle seekers. This is because very few people genuinely follow Jesus for His words of eternal life. These disciples regularly participate in Bible studies or teaching services.
Not only do they study the Bible, they also act on the word. Therefore, God transforms and empowers them by His Spirit.
Now pastors must know that their true church members are those who prioritise the teaching of God’s Word above everything and anything else. They are those who have taken upon themselves the cross of Jesus and are following Him.
By James Quansah
