In answer to Ben
I think Ben said some interesting things about people stating their religious views as 'Jesus' or something along those lines on Facebook. It's a trend I've also noticed and participated in as well. I don't see this as being due to the fact that I don't want to be know as a Christian. As a follower of Christ being a Christian is my primary identity. So why have I subscribed to the trend you may ask? It's because in my opinion the term 'CHristian' in this country no longer means what it was intended to mean. Originally a 'christian' was a follower of CHrist. It was what the early CHristians and those around them called those first believers. Today in this country I feel however that the term 'Christian' has come to mean slightly different things. For one thing it may mean I was born in this country. The USA is a christian nation right? Some people call themselves Christians because they are citizens of this country although i believe this is happening less. Secondly 'Christian' can mean someone who goes to church. My friend told me last week, that she goes to church sometimes and that she believes there is a God and therefore she considers herself a christian. So there is that mindset in many people. Thirdly there are those who associate 'Christian' with the politically super-conservative right wing people. Now you and I both know there are CHristians (true Christians) of all types of political persuasions.
For these three reasons I prefer to place the emphasis of my religious views on the person of Jesus Christ. I am his follower first and foremost. Whether I am an American, go to church, or vote solely based on the pro-life and homeschooling issues are irrelevant to who I see myself as.
In light of these prevailing misconceptions within the people I come into contact with on a daily basis I wish to be known as a person who is in love with Jesus. Everything else is secondary to this. If more people 'Christians' started viewing and presenting themselves in this way perhaps 'Christianity' and 'Christians' would have a reputation.
So I'm not renouncing myself as a 'CHristian'. I'm simply returning to the 1st century translation of it. Going back to the beginning if you will...I am a follower of Jesus.
For these three reasons I prefer to place the emphasis of my religious views on the person of Jesus Christ. I am his follower first and foremost. Whether I am an American, go to church, or vote solely based on the pro-life and homeschooling issues are irrelevant to who I see myself as.
In light of these prevailing misconceptions within the people I come into contact with on a daily basis I wish to be known as a person who is in love with Jesus. Everything else is secondary to this. If more people 'Christians' started viewing and presenting themselves in this way perhaps 'Christianity' and 'Christians' would have a reputation.
So I'm not renouncing myself as a 'CHristian'. I'm simply returning to the 1st century translation of it. Going back to the beginning if you will...I am a follower of Jesus.