Identity Crisis in Western Christianity

Introduction

• Observations: Christianity in Identity Crisis
  • High percentage claiming Christianity historically vs. now
  • Questionable authenticity of claimed Christians
• Cultural Christianity's Influence
  • Familial/social pressures to claim Christianity
  • Low standards in research methodologies inflate numbers

Authentic Faith vs. Cultural Faith

• Defining Authentic Faith
  • Discipleship lens and the fruit of faith
  • The struggle with measuring faith by activities
  • Importance of church attendance, giving, and Bible intake
• Public Perception and Personal Experiences
  • Friends walking away from faith due to perceived differences
  • Identity issues within Christianity

Historical Context of Evangelicalism

• Historical View
  • High view of scripture, spiritual formation, evangelism
• Modern Context
  • Term associated with scandals, political affiliations, etc.
• Crucial Need for Defining Christian Identity
  • Foundation: Faith in Christ
  • True belief evidenced through life fruits

Biblical Teaching on Authentic Faith

• Matthew 7:15-20 on False Prophets
  • Jesus's warning: Recognize by their fruit
  • Good trees bear good fruit, bad trees bear bad fruit
• James 2:14-17 on Faith and Deeds
  • Faith without deeds is dead
  • Actions speak to true belief

Implications of True Christian Identity

• Origins of 'Christian' and Its True Meaning
  • Originally a mocking term, embraced due to its meaning
  • Goal: Christ forming our hearts and minds
• Distinction Between Cultural/Nominal Christians and Practicing Christians
  • Practicing Christians focus on discipleship and authentic living

Framework for Spiritual Growth: 2 Peter 1:1-11

• Context
  • Peter's letter to scattered churches
  • Encouragement towards spiritual growth
• Attributes to Supplement Faith
  • Goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, love
  • Growing in these attributes marks true faith

Balancing Divine Power and Personal Effort

• God’s Role: Divine Power and Promises
  • Divine power provides everything needed for a godly life
  • Growth begins with faith in God's promises and power
• Our Role: Effort and Works
  • Effort and intentionality are also required
  • Paul’s balance in Colossians 1:29—effort with Christ's energy

Danger of Neglecting Spiritual Growth

• Peter’s Warning
  • Those lacking these qualities are ineffective, unproductive, nearsighted, blind
  • Spiritual formation is critical to avoid stumbling and abandonment

Encouragement and Application

• Encouragement to Grow
  • Confirmation of calling through growth in attributes
  • Protection against spiritual stumbling
• The Role of Reminder
  • Importance of being reminded of our spiritual identity and formation

Holistic Approach to Growth and Impact

• Series Intent
  • Practical examination of each attribute in 2 Peter 1:1-11
  • Holy Spirit's role and scripture-guided growth
• Impact on World
  • Living out these attributes shines Jesus’s light in a dark world

Closing Prayer

• Seeking Divine Help
  • Asking Holy Spirit for help in growth and formation
  • Becoming an authentic reflection of faith

Key Bible References

• Matthew 7:15-20 (False Prophets)
• James 2:14-17 (Faith and Deeds)
• Philippians 2:12 (Work out salvation)
• Colossians 1:29 (Effort with Christ’s energy)
• Hebrews 12:1-3 (Running with perseverance)