Anyone who identifies as a Christian has surely been criticized at one point or another in their lifetime. The snide comment, "Oh, you're a Christian?" isn't uncommon to hear. Then, you awkwardly find yourself trying to defend a part of yourself that shouldn't feel like something to be ashamed of. Yet, the condescending stereotypes can make this pillar of identity seem like something so far from what it actually is.
So, here's the truth: I'm a Christian, but I'm not...
1. Hypocritical:
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room: Christians sin. Hey, I'll even say it again for the people in the back...Christians sin. I am no exception to this. Heck, I sin a lot. Because of this, I don't think it's fair to judge other people. Just because I go to church on Sundays doesn't mean that I have the right to think of myself as a better, more holy person than anyone else.
2. Homophobic:
Sure, the Bible discusses homosexuality some. But, the Bible talks about loving thy neighbor a lot more. In my opinion, it isn't right to pick and choose scripture in order to marginalize people... But maybe that's just me.
3. Judgmental:
This is a misconception that a lot of people have, and it's understandable. There are Christians out there who are overly critical of others. In addition, Christians do tend to have a goal of the person they want to be, but, even then, everyone sins. In my opinion, until I am completely flawless and sin-free, who am I to judge someone else?
4. Pushy:
By this, I mean someone who is always trying to convert others. As Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." I believe this wholeheartedly. Of course I would love for everyone to believe in God, but I also think that people have to want to change. Change is something that has to occur at the right pace, otherwise it won't be lasting.
5. Ignorant:
Just because I identify with a certain religion doesn't mean that I'm ignorant or misinformed. This is similar to the belief that all Christians are anti-liberal Republicans... The whole idea of stereotypes as a whole is kind of ignorant, don't ya think? I can be both informed and religious, you know.
6. Traditional:
The Bible was written a long time ago and, boy, have times changed. A lot of ideas presented in the book (i.e. viewing women as property and inferior to men, shaming homosexuals, etc.) are outdated, and, frankly, frowned upon nowadays. That being said, this doesn't discount all of the information in the Bible. The values of the religion are still very applicable.
7. Perfect:
As a Christian, I try to be the best person I can be. But, I often (read: always) fall short. But that doesn't mean I won't stop trying to improve myself.
I hope this article helped shed some light on a very serious topic. Now, go spread some light in your day to day lives.
