The Test of Authenticity

“And looking around at those who were sitting in a circle around Him, He said, ‘Here are My mother and My brothers! Whoever does the will of God is My brother and sister and mother.’” (Mark 3:34-35)

What is the test of an authentic Christian? He or she has a personal relationship with the Lord through faith in Jesus. In short, they are family. And what is the test of family and thus the test of a genuine relationship? He or she does the will of God.

Many say they are committed to the will of God. Many Jewish folks, for example, will say they are committed to the will of God. There are many Muslims who would say the same.

Jesus said that the will of God is for people to believe in Him, God’s Son. The will of God is made clear in the bible. It reveals what God wants. Thus, to know and understand the will of God, we go to the word of God. Committing to and living according to what it teaches about the will of God is then what distinguishes the true family of the Lord.

Jesus illustrated this at a different time. He told a parable of two sons. One said he would do what his father asked, but didn’t. The other said he would not do what his father asked, but later felt bad about it and changed his mind. He then went and did what his father asked.

Real Christians do God’s will.

Lord, We pray that not only will Your will be done, but also that we may do Your will today and each day. Amen.