What's in a Name!

Have you ever considered what the title Christian means? I'm not talking about it's actual definition; I'm talking about the perceptions associated with the name Christian. Perceptions? Yes perceptions! Sadly enough, the perceptions many associate with the name Christian, are just as often true as not.

Perceptions are reality, but why? I mostly believe it stems from our own self-pride. We love to be right, don't we? Perception or not, it's much easier to rest on your perception than it is to take the time to really know someone.

Here's were I've got a problem. I've seen it time and time again, you strike up a conversation, everything's going fine until.....you drop the big "C". In other words, you inform them that you are a Christian. (I know some of you were thinking about a big cookie, or even some cake. You know who you are. RM) What I've experienced, is that people will immediately change their demeanor, and start looking for a way out of the uncomfortable spot you've placed them in. To be honest about it, I've even looked to drop a conversation at the point.

So what give's? Why all the negative hype associated with a name? I've often said to friends that even I can't stand Christians. So Let's break down a few of the common perceptions about Christians:

o "Christians are hypocrites!"

How should we respond to that? Should we respond? My answer....Yes...and No! Before you get confused and stop reading, understand this. Generally, Christians are hypocrites. Here's where some readers might get a little upset. When speaking of "Christians", I am speaking to a specific era of Christians. Yea, I'm calling somebody out! The Traditional Churches of our parents era are exactly who I'm flicking this booger on. After growing up in a traditional church, I feel completely qualified to make the following statements......in my next post! See ya!