Think you're a Christian? Take this lie detector test

As image bearers of God, those who know Him start acting like Him. This, according to the Bible, is an excellent lie detector test. Not everyone who claims to know God actually does, and although it is impossible to know what's going on inside a person's heart, it is possible to know whether or not their actions match their profession.

Over and over again, we see this kind of test. By their fruits you shall know them (Matthew 7:15-20), all will know you are my disciples by your love for each other (John 13:35), I will show you my faith by my works (James 2:18). 1 John 3:9 even goes as far as to say that he who is born of God does not sin and cannot sin.

Now, obviously, that last one does not mean a Christian will literally never sin. In fact, earlier in that same epistle, John says that to say that means you are self deceived, and the truth is not in you (1 John 1:8). You are absolutely a sinner, and if you have sinned at all, Jesus advocates on your behalf. But all of the above tells us something: If you know God, your works will testify to that. If your works are not Christian, you have contradicted your claims to be one.

In the world today, there are many people claiming to be Christian who are not acting like it. Their faith, to them, is not relevant in their daily lives. Christianity is the mere intellectual assent that there is a God, Jesus really did walk the earth, and that's cool and all, but why does that mean I should stop sleeping around, or cussing, or watching porn, or drinking until I'm stupid enough to jump off a bridge? YOLO, right? Just because some carpenter died on a cross 2,000 years ago doesn't mean I have to adjust my life.

But oh yes, my friend, you absolutely do need to adjust your life. The blood of Christ covers only the faithful, and if you deny your faith by your works, what faith do you have? And so my brethren, I have two very important messages to you. The first is that while it is generally ok to assume your Christian friend is Christian, watch their works. If they aren't acting saved, it is in their best interest to ask probing questions. The second is to test yourself to see if you are of the faith. See, you are in a better position than any other human being on the face of the earth. We can't see your heart. You can. Therefore, the first person you should test is yourself. Are you practising what you preach? Are you preaching what you practice? Ensure that your faith is true, and then live it to the full.