How to Be a Christian in The Real World

Once upon a time, in a land far far away, I had a job as a server in a restaurant. Truth be told, I’ve had several different jobs as a server (waiter). But, before I became a Christian my lifestyle was much different (big surprise, huh?!).I had a regular habit of partying with my coworkers. I partied so hard that many times I’d spend all the money that I made that day at the bar that night, and I had no money left over. So, it was back to work…This is by no means me bragging about partying. I make this point to illustrate a small fraction of how terribly I lived before Jesus saved me.Well, the day came when I went back to waiting tables after I had become a Christian.It would be an understatement to say that I was just a little nervous about how I was going to be a Christian in this environment. If you’ve seen the movie Waiting with Ryan Renolds, then you know how the service industry looks. Not a lot of godly things happen in that environment.As I started this new job, I was simultaneously going into my second semester of seminary, and everyone that I worked with knew it. I guess everyone had gotten the briefing that a seminary student was coming onto the scene because from day one I got ambushed with questions about inconsistencies in the Bible, the Crusades, Jesus specials (quasi-true stories of Jesus on the History Channel), and the hypocrisy of the church.So, how did I do the whole Christian-thing in the real world?I was just a Christian.I say “just” here not in a reductionistic way, but rather in a simple way. I allowed myself to be a Christian.Many times in our lives we’re faced, and will continuously be faced, with whether or not we will hide our faith or not. Now, I’m not saying that I brought a fanny pack full of gospel tracks and handed them out while I was preaching on a soap box in the dining room. I simply lived according to my worldview.As Christians we’re called to live a life that demonstrates Christ. But does that look like being a perfect person like Ned Flanders? No!Here are a few tips on being a Christian in the “real world”:1. Be Humble. Ephesians 2 tells us that Christ humbled himself unto death. Even death on a cross. As we follow in Christ’s example by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can diffuse many arguments. Many times if people know that you’re a Christian they will say things that are harsh, yet its born out of their pain. If you will humble yourself and love and serve them many times they will calm down and be open to spiritual dialogue. (Romans 12:14-21)2. Be Confident. You have been brought from death to life and are a new creation. Be confident that God has equipped you and is with you as you go into your workplace. Be confident and joyful in the fact that He has saved you. This kind of humble, joyous confidence is contagious, and is a beautiful way of living as a redeemed person. (2 Corinthians 5:17)3. Live By Grace. You were saved by grace, so don’t resort back to living like you have to be perfect. Don’t strive for perfection, strive towards Jesus. Allow him to work in you and transform you right in front of those you work with. Trust me, I know from experience that they will notice the transformation. Remember that Christianity is the only worldview that doesn’t say “I obey, therefore God loves me.” It says, “God loves me, therefore I obey.” When unbelievers criticize you for sinning, remind them that there are sinners and there is Jesus. You are not the perfect risen Lord, only He is, so point them to Him. (Ephesians 2:8-9)4. Listen and Ask Questions. Then, Listen Some More. My dad used to always say, “A wise man listens and keeps his mouth shut.” I think that was my dad’s version of James 1:19, “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” People’s favorite topic to talk about is themselves, so ask them tons of questions about themselves. Let them tell you how they feel about Christianity and things related. Question why they believe what they believe. The best way for someone to see the fault in their own worldview is to be pushed to the edge with questions. Do this in a loving way, but do it none the less.4. Be a Messenger. Many people these days tend to lean toward relational evangelism. I’m one of them. But, many of those people also leave the evangelism part out and just do the relational thing. I’m not saying that you need an agenda in your conversation, but pray that God would give you an opportunity to speak the truth of the gospel into their life. Also, be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading because he may want you to speak up even when the timing isn’t right. (Romans 10:14)Matt Walker is a member of the Monticello City Group. He is the founder and president of Anchor Apologetics.