The Difference Between False Christian Faith and True Christian Faith

The Difference Between False Christian Faith and True Christian Faith

False Christian faith and true Christian faith stand in stark contrast to each other. While true faith is centered solely on the finished work of Jesus Christ, false faith often incorporates human effort, moralism, or social activism. The Bible warns about false brethren who attempt to mix works-based salvation with the gospel of grace.

False Christian Faith

False Christian faith is often promoted by false brethren and secular individuals who seek to incorporate aspects of biblical teaching to gain influence over both unbelievers and Christians. These individuals may focus on social justice, moral living, or religious rituals rather than faith in Christ alone.

Some characteristics of false Christian faith include:

Works-Based Salvation: The belief that forgiveness, righteous living, or obedience to the law are necessary for salvation. Social Gospel: The idea that Christianity is primarily about making the world a better place through activism and good deeds. Moralism: Emphasizing good behavior, forgiveness of others, and social harmony as the means to earn favor with God. Worldly Approval: Seeking validation from secular society, rather than standing on the truth of Scripture.

Jesus warned about false professions of faith:

"Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." (Matthew 7:22-23)

Paul also warned against those who pervert the gospel:

"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ." (Galatians 1:6-7)

True Christian Faith

True Christian faith is based on the gospel of Jesus Christ:

Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Those who believe in Him receive eternal life as a free gift (John 3:16).

Key characteristics of true Christian faith:

Salvation by Faith Alone: Eternal life is received by believing in Jesus Christ, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). Christ-Centered Message: True faith focuses on Christ and His crucifixion (1 Corinthians 2:2). Security in Christ: Once saved, a believer has eternal life that cannot be lost (John 10:28). Grace Over Law: Believers are justified by faith, not by keeping the law (Galatians 2:16).

The Issue of Forgiveness and Righteous Living

False Christians often teach that one must forgive others to be saved, but the truth is that forgiveness affects fellowship with God, not eternal salvation (1 John 1:9).

Similarly, some believe that righteous living is required for salvation, but the Bible teaches that salvation is by faith alone. However, righteous living can be beneficial in life, as Proverbs states:

"Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death." (Proverbs 11:4)

Righteousness can protect a person from trouble, but it does not contribute to salvation.

Conclusion

False Christian faith misleads people into trusting in their works, reputation, or social status for salvation. True Christian faith, as Paul proclaimed, is centered on Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2). Salvation is by grace through faith alone in Jesus Christ, apart from works. Those who trust in Him alone have eternal life and the full assurance of salvation.