When you hear the term “radical Christian,” what comes to mind? Perhaps you picture someone standing on a street corner with a megaphone, shouting at passersby to repent and turn to God. Or maybe you envision a group picketing outside an abortion clinic or other controversial location.
While these actions can certainly be a part of radical Christianity, being a radical Christian is about more than just outward displays of faith. It’s about living a fully surrendered life to God and being willing to go against the cultural norms to follow Jesus.
So what does it look like to be a radical Christian in today’s world? Here are a few key characteristics:
- A willingness to obey God, even when it’s complicated.
Being a radical Christian means that you are willing to do whatever God asks of you, even if it goes against your desires or the expectations of others. This might mean sacrificing comfort or convenience or taking a stand on an unpopular issue.
- A deep commitment to prayer and Bible study.
If you want to be a radical Christian, you must have a strong faith foundation. This means praying and reading the Bible regularly to hear from God and understand his will for your life.
- A heart for evangelism and discipleship.
Being a radical Christian means you are passionate about sharing the gospel with others and helping them grow in their faith. This might involve transferring your faith with coworkers, volunteering at your church, or even visiting other countries.
- A willingness to serve others.
If you want to be a radical Christian, you need to be willing to put the needs of others before your own. This might mean volunteering at a homeless shelter, helping at a food bank, or simply listening to a friend who is going through a tough time.
- A commitment to living a holy life.
Being a radical Christian means that you are committed to living a pleasing life to God. This means avoiding sin and temptation and striving to influence those around you positively.
Living as a radical Christian is not always easy, but it is worth it. Living out our faith boldly and passionately can feel like a narrow path in a world that often values conformity and assimilation. However, the Bible calls us to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, be set apart from the world, and pursue a life pleasing to God.
Being a radical Christian means putting Jesus at the center of everything we do. It means following His example and living out His teachings daily. It means speaking out against injustice, loving our neighbors sacrificially, and being willing to make sacrifices for the gospel’s sake.
Living as a radical Christian may mean taking risks and stepping out of our comfort zones. It may mean standing up for what we believe in, even when it is not popular or easy. It may mean giving up our desires and plans to serve God and others.
While living as a radical Christian may not always be comfortable or easy, the rewards are immeasurable. When we live for Christ, we experience a deep sense of purpose, joy, and peace that can only come from Him. We also have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.
Know that you are not alone if you feel called to be a radical Christian. Countless others have answered the call to follow Jesus with their whole hearts and are making a difference in their communities and the world. So if you’re ready to take the plunge, go for it! God will be with you every step of the way.
