Beyond 'Good Deeds': The True Christian Call to Share God's Love

Discover how being a Christian is defined not just by personal faith, but by actively sharing God's love and message. This post delves into the concept of bearing spiritual fruit and its connection to experiencing God's lasting joy, distinguishing it from mere good works or church attendance.

The Fruit of the Spirit vs. Mere Good Deeds

In the episode "What It Really Means to Be a Christian," host Barry Meguiar emphasizes a crucial distinction often overlooked: the difference between a Christian life and a life of good deeds. While living a moral life and attending church are common markers people associate with Christianity, Barry argues that true Christianity goes far deeper. It's not about accumulating a list of good works to earn favor or identity. Instead, it's about a transformation that naturally produces 'fruit,' a concept deeply rooted in scripture.

Jesus Himself used the analogy of a tree and its fruit. In the Gospels, He speaks of branches that bear fruit and those that do not. The fruit-bearing branches are those that are connected to the vine, drawing life and sustenance, and in turn, producing what is good. Barry connects this directly to experiencing God's joy. He states, "And wherein you bear fruit, ah, Hear what the words say therein. My joy remain with you, and your joy remain full. That's being a Christian." This isn't just about feeling happy; it's about a deep, abiding joy that stems from fulfilling God's purpose through you.

The world often applauds good deeds. We see people who are kind, generous, and helpful, and we admire them. However, the biblical definition of a Christian is more than just embodying admirable human qualities. It’s about being a conduit for God’s love to flow through you. This means a supernatural change has occurred, enabling you to love as God loves, to extend grace, and to share the message of hope. The fruit isn't just observable actions; it’s the evidence of God’s life at work within you, impacting others. This internal work, this connection to the vine, is what leads to the fullness of joy that the world cannot give and cannot take away.

The Mission to Share God's Love

A significant theme explored is the active role Christians are called to play in sharing God's love. Barry powerfully asserts that the world's current state of confusion, corruption, and deviant behavior is, in part, a consequence of Christians remaining silent. "The scripture actually says they see evil is good. That's why they're promoting all these mindless things... Because Satan's the God of this world, and he has them in his grasp. And he has them, and he convinces them that evil is good. How do we change that?"

The answer lies in the Christian's mandate to be a witness. Barry quotes Isaiah 43:10: "I appoint you as my witness." He elaborates, "That's our one job. Spurgeon said you've got one job to do. That's it. Let's get as many people into heaven as we possibly can while there's still time left." This isn't a passive role; it's an urgent mission. It means, as Barry puts it, that "we haven't been telling them God loves you." The implication is that individuals are desperately waiting for this message, hungering for the love and hope that a relationship with Christ offers.

The Danger of Silence

The podcast highlights the detrimental effects of silence. When Christians keep their faith to themselves, they inadvertently allow the world's darkness to prevail. The message of salvation, of God's unfailing love, and the truth of His word are obscured. This silence can lead to non-Christians forming negative perceptions of Christianity based on the actions of a few, or simply because the light of Christ isn't being shone into their lives through others. Barry is direct: "Most non-Christians are non-Christians because of Christians. That's our responsibility. And we're letting them down."

God Uses Ordinary People

Barry shares his own experience as a "car guy" who "just peddled car wax." He expresses amazement at how God can use someone so ordinary to impact lives. This is a critical point for anyone feeling unqualified or inadequate to share their faith. The power doesn't come from the messenger but from the message and the Spirit working through the messenger. "We carry this precious gift around in the clay pots of our ordinary lives." The Holy Spirit is the one who equips, provides the words, and convicts hearts. The Christian's part is simply to be willing and obedient, allowing God's love to flow through them.

Living as a Full-Time Minister

The concept of being a "full-time minister" is central to the episode's message. Barry challenges the notion that ministry is reserved for pastors or those in full-time religious vocations. He states unequivocally, "There is nothing in your life that's secular. Nothing. Nothing in your life is secular, folks. If you're a Christian, everything you do and say is moving everybody watch you closer or further away from God. You're a full-time minister. You didn't know that, did you?"

This perspective reframes everyday life. Every interaction, every conversation, every action becomes an opportunity to reflect God's character and share His love. Whether at work, with family, or in public, Christians are ambassadors for Christ. This requires intentionality and awareness that one's life is a testimony. The way one handles stress, the words used in anger or frustration, the generosity shown – all of it speaks volumes. The podcast urges listeners to consider their daily lives as the primary arena for ministry, where they can actively move people closer to Jesus.

The Impact of 'Secular Christianity'

The episode critiques the idea of a "secular Christian" – someone who identifies as Christian but lives a life that mirrors the world, marked by behaviors inconsistent with biblical teaching. Barry laments the trend of churches honoring individuals primarily for their financial contributions, even if their lives are not a testament to their faith. This creates a false impression and can lead others astray. "We're sending people to hell by how we live our lives," he warns. True Christianity is not a Sunday-only affair or a private belief system; it's a transformative force that permeates every aspect of life and actively engages with the world.

Combating Fear Through Purpose

A profound outcome of living out one's Christian calling, according to Barry, is the eradication of fear. He shares his personal testimony of living without fear for decades, attributing it to embracing God's purpose. The scripture Romans 8:28 ("And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.") is central here. When a Christian is actively pursuing God's purpose – which is to seek and save the lost – they align themselves with God's plan. This alignment brings a deep sense of security and peace, diminishing the power of fear.

Fear often arises from uncertainty, loss, and a focus on worldly circumstances. However, when one's focus shifts to God's eternal purposes and the joy of furthering His kingdom, worldly anxieties lose their grip. Even in the face of personal tragedy, as Barry experienced with the loss of his daughter, the abiding joy and purpose in Christ can provide a stable foundation. This active engagement in sharing God's love and bringing others closer to Him is presented not just as an obligation, but as the key to unlocking a life free from fear and filled with profound, lasting joy.

For a deeper dive into these life-changing principles, listen to the full episode and embrace the true calling of a Christian.