What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?

What actually makes someone a Christian? In John 15:4–11, Jesus describes the Christian life through the picture of a vine and its branches. A true Christian is not merely someone who professes Christ, attends church, or has had a religious experience. A Christian has been brought into living union with Jesus Christ.

Because Christ is the Vine, His people abide in Him, bear spiritual fruit, remain with Him, abide in His Word, obey Him out of love, and find their joy in Him. None of these things earn salvation; they are the evidence of the new life God has given. As Jesus declares, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

The Christian life begins, continues, and ends in complete dependence upon Christ. Abide in Christ. Bear much fruit. Glorify God.