Can I answer, please.
A Christian is a person who has gone through these steps.
1. realizes what a mess he/she is. (because without this knowledge how can one need to be “saved.”)
2. recognizes that all their own efforts at becoming “good” “worthy” or “perfect” have been in vain. (thinking you are good only leads to the sin of Pride, it doesn’t lend itself in needing a Savior)
3. Turns to Christ and His sacrificing atonement to wash those sins away forever.
4. Becomes one with Christ, recognizing that even though we at times fail, our number one concern is in doing His will.
and finally...
5. Never, never falling into the trap of self involvement. Not thinking, dwelling or grasping for the glory that is His. Never becoming Pharisiacal in our self-worth. Not performing tasks that we think will “earn” us anything. We follow Christ because of who HE is and not because of what we will get. Never looks to anything, not Church, not family, not wealth or health to fulfill the role of Christ, fully God, fully man, as our individual Savior from the punishment of God’s judgement into eternal life. (In this, Mormonism fails completely IMHO)
I have eternal life. Right now. I do not worry about myself because whatever I “earn” as crowns of glory, I will gladly cast at the feet of my Savior for His glory alone.
I’ve probably left something important out, but this is how my imperfect being sees to tell you truth at this time. Forgive me for my ommissions.
That’s an answer I can live with! Thanks, CC.
I’m not going to judge you for your omissions, so don’t worry about asking my forgiveness. I learned a long time ago that life was much better for me if I not only forgave everyone I met, but also that I forgive myself. The last part is hard.