Consider this a call to sanity with a dash of critical thinking. Problem: “No true Christian would…” How often have you heard that recently? I’ve recently heard it from a panel-driven talk show about who to vote for. “No true Christian would vote for…” I’ve read it on social media from those inside and outside the faith. “No true Christian would (do, believe, or say)…” The problem is that this is a logical fallacy called “no true Scotsman,” which seeks to redefine meanings. When applied to Christians, it abuses the person and the Word of God.
Let’s consider the Scots first. What is a Scotsman? Someone who calls Scotland their home. But by saying something like “no true Scotsman washes dishes on Saturday.” We’ve added something to the definition that doesn’t belong.
So, to understand how this abuses Christians, we must define Christianity. We know that the term was coined in Antioch. “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch.” (Acts 11:26b, CSB) Before that, they called themselves “The Way.” Later in Acts, Paul told King Agrippa his story of following Christ.
“To this very day, I have had help from God, and I stand and testify to both small and great, saying nothing other than what the prophets and Moses said would take place—that the Messiah would suffer, and that, as the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light to our people and to the Gentiles.” As he was saying these things in his defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You’re out of your mind, Paul! Too much study is driving you mad.” But Paul replied, “I’m not out of my mind, most excellent Festus. On the contrary, I’m speaking words of truth and good judgment. For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak boldly to him. For I am convinced that none of these things has escaped his notice, since this was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you believe.” Agrippa said to Paul, “Are you going to persuade me to become a Christian so easily?” “I wish before God,” replied Paul, “that whether easily or with difficulty, not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am—except for these chains.” (Acts 26:22–29, CSB)
This exchange adds to our definition. A Christian believes Jesus is the promised Messiah (Christ), who suffered, died, and rose again. This belief begins a journey of discipleship, of following Jesus. That journey is centered on Jesus saying, “If you love me, you will keep my commands.” (John 14:15, CSB)
Now, at this point, we collide with what it means to be saved. Rightly so, a direct correlation exists between being Christian and being saved. A certain Phillipian jailer asked that question. “He escorted them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”” (Acts 16:30–31, CSB) Paul wrote in Romans, “If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9, CSB) Everything else that follows is “working out our salvation (putting our beliefs into practice) with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).
Let’s get back to our true Scotsman, or in our case, the true Christian. When we add anything to the definition above, we abuse scripture by adding requirements to follow Christ. It smacks of manipulation and control when folks say only true Christians do something or don’t do something. At this point, someone will say, “You’ll know them by their fruit.” Jesus did say that in Matthew 7:15-20. The context, however, is not the struggles of individuals but false teachers and prophets. Jesus also said to deal with your own sin before pointing out the sin in others (Matthew 7:3-5).
The “No true Christian” fallacy is rampant in the church and in the world. Let’s recognize it for what it is – An attempt to define Christianity in a way different than the Scriptures. But, it is possible to say that a consistent Christian does, says, or believes something. That opens the door to discussion, understanding, and growth since it seeks to define what is consistent with being a Christian.
The challenge for you is this. Avoid the temptation to judge others as being or not being true Christians. That’s really above our pay grade since only God knows their heart. Be prepared with your shield of faith for those times when someone throws that arrow at you. Rely on the Holy Spirit for how you respond when it does happen. Remember this: our critics can say anything about us, but Jesus calls us by name and we listen to His voice.
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