Chapter XXXIV: Part III: Relation to God

CHAPTER XXI
Be a Christian

INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTER XXI

BY SAMUEL FALLOWS

“Early let _me_ seek Thy favor;
Early let _me_ do Thy will;
Blessed Lord, and only Savior,
With Thy love _my_ bosom fill;
Blessed Jesus,
Thou hast loved _me_, love _me_ still.”

What is it to be a Christian? It is to be born again. What is it to be born again? The New Testament gives the answer. He that “believeth that Jesus is the Son of God is born of Him.” (1 John 5:1). He “that loveth is born of God.” (1 John 4:7). He “that doeth righteousness is born of Him.” (1 John 2:29).

Faith, love righteousness and trust in Christ, love for Christ, right deeds through this faith and love in every sphere of life, deeds of justice, of mercy, of goodness, of purity, of charity for the welfare of his fellowmen,—these make a Christian.

Be such a Christian, my boy. Be a trusting, brave, noble, strong, gentle, pure, loving and self-sacrificing follower of Jesus Christ.